The Welsh Government says ancient monuments, castles and listed buildings are increasingly at risk from unlawful activities known as heritage crime. This can include theft, deliberate damage, unauthorised works on protected sites, illegal metal detecting and anti-social behaviour.
It is a criminal offence to damage or destroy a scheduled monument or to use metal detectors on protected sites without consent. Officials warn that such crimes not only damage irreplaceable heritage but also harm local communities, tourism and the economy.
Neath Abbey targeted Cadw custodians have reported several incidents at Neath Abbey this year. New interpretation signage was damaged and grass torn up after intruders broke into the site and used it as a bike track. In a separate incident, windows to the undercroft were smashed and panels from an as-yet unopened exhibition were destroyed.
Other sites have also been affected. Blaenavon Ironworks’ Cast House was closed to the public after an AV display was vandalised and bricks thrown from the top of a tower. At Caerleon’s Amphitheatre and Barracks, anti-social behaviour has included graffiti, heat damage to Roman brickwork from BBQs, a burnt-out motorbike left at the site and repeated masonry damage requiring emergency repairs.
Culture Minister Jack Sargeant said:
“Heritage crime is more than vandalism, it is a loss of our history. But reporting it can help protect Wales’s past for future generations so I would urge the public to be watchful.”
Since the start of the year, incidents have in some cases forced sites to partially close and delayed planned conservation work while repairs are prioritised.
How to report heritage crime
- In an emergency: Call 999 and use the phrase Operation Heritage Cymru
- Non-emergency: Call 101 and use the phrase Operation Heritage Cymru
- To remain anonymous: Contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org
Damage to scheduled monuments should also be reported to Cadw, and listed building concerns to your local authority conservation officer. Residents can also join their local Heritage Watch scheme.
