Another vehicle collision with one of the medieval gates of Winchelsea has prompted renewed calls for proper protection for these ancient monuments. This time, the Pipewell or Ferry Gate on Ferry Hill in Winchelsea was hit by a car travelling up hill.
The Winchelsea Archaeological Society (WAS) and local conservation group, Winchelsea Heritage, have written to the owner of the gate, the unelected Corporation 
of Winchelsea, as well as Highways England, East Sussex Highways and Rother’s Conservation Officer, to ask for an urgent action plan to be drawn up to provide physical protection to all three gates in Winchelsea.
They have highlighted the number of recent collisions witnessed at the Strand Gate and vehicles getting stuck, and the evidence of collisions at the New Gate. Winchelsea’s Community Speed Watch has for some time been seeking official action to reduce the number of oversized vehicles coming through the Strand Gate.
WAS Secretary Laurence Tiger commented, “A plan is being drawn up to restore the Pipewell Gate, to which we have donated. But, unless something is done soon to protect it, there might be nothing there to restore!”
Rye residents will sympathise with their fellow Ancient Town, given their similar experiences with the Landgate.
Photos: Richard Comotto