Protecting our nation’s war memorials

Ministers remind courts of the tough penalties for vandalism and desecration.

There are up to 100,000 war memorials in the UK, often central features in town and village life and cherished by the local community. At the time of Remembrance this week, the Government is reaffirming its commitment to their protection.

In a joint letter to local authorities Communities Minister Ian Austin and Justice Minister Bridget Prentice will highlight the tough penalties that exist for those convicted of vandalising, damaging or desecrating war memorials.

The letter also sets out how councils can spend public money on the important task of repairing, maintaining and protecting war memorials.

Ian Austin said:

"In the week the nation paused to remember the sacrifices British heroes have made, it's right that we remind those who desecrate or damage war memorials that tough penalties exist for anyone who is convicted of such acts, and remind councils of their important role in maintaining these monuments."

Bridget Prentice said:

"Incidences of damage to war memorials cause great distress to local communities and we should not tolerate such yobbish behaviour. Sentencing will always be for the courts to decide but vandals may think twice about committing these disgusting acts if they realise they could get a prison sentence as a result."

Another threat to war memorials – and other historic and architectural monuments more generally – across the country is disrepair, or an uncertain future. A consultation has just closed on the first planning policy statement for protecting the entire historic environment, affecting archaeology, historic areas, buildings, landscapes and war memorials.

It is complemented by detailed guidance from English Heritage and sets out that councils and developers should use the historic environment to stimulate and inspire new buildings and development of imaginative and high quality design.

The new Planning Policy Statement 15 covers all heritage assets, whether designated or not, and puts their protection, including protection for war memorials, at the heart of local decisions.

Mr Austin added:

"We will shortly set out a revised policy on what councils need to do to conserve England's heritage.

"Some assets are decaying and need action to secure their future. Local councils already have powers they need for the upkeep of war memorials, but we are going much further in dealing with the future of our monuments by sending out a clear message that our historic environment is a real asset to the community and has to be treated accordingly.

"The act of communal remembrance at this time of year is an honour to those who sacrificed their lives. Memorials are an important part of remembrance so we must ensure these treasured symbols are properly protected."

Posted Friday November 13^th 2009
By Communities and Local Government