Last month, English Heritage launched a campaign to expand its ‘At Risk’ register to include Grade II listed buildings.
Once such building that many believe should be added to the register is the former former Frank James Hospital. The Dutch-style hospital buildings (and boundary wall) were Grade II listed back in 1979, but have been empty for many years and fallen into disrepair, unfortunately becoming the target of vandals.
“Grade II buildings are the nation’s heritage treasury”
A feature by Ben Hoyle in The Times last month, had the ‘Frank James’ front and centre of the article, suggesting it was a valid candidate for listing on the ‘At Risk’ register.
Simon Thurley, chief executive of English Heritage said at the time, “Grade II buildings are the bulk of the nation’s heritage treasury. When one of them is lost, it’s as though someone has rubbed out a bit of the past.”
We’ve been in touch with English Heritage to find out whether the Frank James Hospital has been put forward for the register and will let you know when we hear back.
Friends of Frank James
Readers will remember that a number of community-minded residents have been giving up their time, at least once a month, since March 2012 to tidy the overgrown grounds of the former hospital.
In response to the neglect, the Friends of Frank James have set about locating the owners and finding out what can be done to ensure the buildings are saved from ruin.
The Friends are made up of residents young and old, all working together to save this piece of Island heritage.
Next session
This Saturday (10th November) sees another session at the Frank James Hospital grounds.
Residents are invited to join The Friends to help clear the grounds and we understand that Peter Madden, who lives in Portsmouth and represents the Consortium of owners, is expected to attend. Friends also tell us that Estate Agent Norman White “has solemnly promised to come this time”.
Pop along from 10am on Saturday to help with the clear up.
