Wareham Town Walls are Saxon earth ramparts surrounding the
old town of Wareham on 3 sides. The Walls are owned by the
Rempstone Estate, and leased to Purbeck District Council. There is
a Management Plan for Wareham Walls that was put together in 2001
by consultant archaeologist Laurence Keen. This Management Plan
identified that a lot of the vegetation on the ramparts of the
Walls self seeded, and the roots are damaging the structure of this
Scheduled Ancient Monument. The Management Plan identified that the
vegetation therefore needs to be removed, and a phased work plan
was suggested. The third phase of this work has just been
completed, with another 7 phases planned, subject to funding.
Once the damaging woody vegetation has been substantially
removed, the Walls will be discernable within the wider landscape
as the impressive town defences that they once represented. The
Management Plan also identified that interpretation boards are
required round the Walls, so that people have a better
understanding of the historical significance of the monument. The
interpretation boards will also give detail of the measures that
are being implemented to enhance the wildlife interest of the
Walls, in balance with preserving the monument for future
generations.
The lease for the Walls is due to be renewed in September of
this year, and the District Council are currently negotiating with
the Rempstone Estate with a view to entering into a new lease
arrangement.
Basic maintenance of these open spaces, including grass
cutting and litter clearance are managed by Environmental Services
department.
Contact Details:
For information about the management of Wareham Town Walls
contact Helen Lilley, Senior Landscape Architect on 01929
557257.