£400,000 bid to give priory facelift

The 400,000 project involves removing the ugly fence surrounding the medieval remains, opening pathways with interpretation boards and closing the park at night to stop vandalism.

Some 24,000 has already spent preparing a preliminary report. Organisers will be approaching the Lottery and the EC for more funding.

Said John Lawrence of the Priory Trust: 'Recent open days have demonstrated the enormous local interest in Lewes Priory.

'On the site, between Cockshut Road and the Dripping Pan, the massive visible remains will be made safe so that the surrounding chain-link fencing can be removed.

'Pathways will be established, which need to be suitable for visitors of all ages, including those in wheelchairs.

'There will be a number of interpretation signs, with nearby seating, to explain the various buildings.

'Some areas, that have not been excavated in the past, will be located and marked out using underground radar

'Gates will be provided near Priory Cottage and the entrance to the Convent Field so that the site can be closed at night.'

The Trust will also be discussing with neighbours and the authorities how access from Mountfield Road and Cockshut Road can be improved.

Added Mr Lawrence: 'Lewes Priory is one of the most important ecclesiastical sites in southern England and is studied and appreciated by amateur and professional historians and archaeologists, by enthusiasts and by scholars.

'Many partnerships will be established with schools, universities and interest groups, so that the considerable sums that will be sought from the Lottery and other bodies can be of wide public benefit.'

There is also the possibility of an archaeological excavation.

Offers of assistance for the 'Priory Park' should be addressed to Lewes Town Hall.

An open afternoon is planned for September 9. Free tours, from 2pm to 4pm, will start from the Cockshut end.