Positive step forward for Ashford's historic First World War tank

Ashford Borough Council has welcomed a positive development in efforts to restore the town’s historic First World War tank, after The Ashford Heritage and Memorial Charitable Foundation was invited to work with the Council on developing a funding bid to the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

The charity submitted an Expression of Interest earlier this year and has now received an encouraging response. While this does not represent a funding award, it marks an important step forward in the long-running ambition to secure a sustainable future for the Grade II listed tank, which is also a registered war memorial and prominent town centre landmark.

Ashford’s Mark IV tank is a rare survivor from the First World War and has significant national and local heritage importance. Its condition has deteriorated over time, and any restoration project will require detailed conservation, technical and financial planning.

The Ashford Heritage and Memorial Charitable Foundation, led by Cllr Peter Feacey and supported by local volunteers, has worked over a number of years to raise awareness of the tank’s condition and build support for its restoration. A recent petition has also highlighted the strength of feeling among residents and the importance local people place on protecting the tank for future generations.

Ashford Borough Council has previously set aside £1m towards three heritage assets identified as being most in need of financial support: the Hubert Fountain in Victoria Park, Woodchurch Windmill and the WWI tank. However, external funding and partnership working will be essential to deliver the scale of restoration required.

Cllr Noel Ovenden, The Leader of Ashford Borough Council said: “This is very welcome news and an encouraging step forward for everyone who wants to see Ashford’s First World War tank protected for future generations. I would like to pay tribute to The Ashford Heritage and Memorial Charitable Foundation, Cllr Peter Feacey and the volunteers who have worked so hard to raise awareness of the tank’s condition and build support for its restoration.

“There is still some way to go, and this is not yet a funding award, but it is an important milestone. The Council will continue to work with the charity and partners to develop strong, deliverable plans that recognise the tank’s national significance, its importance to Ashford, and the strength of feeling within the local community.”

The Council and the charity will now work together to develop a robust funding submission, supported by appropriate technical, conservation, financial and community engagement information. Cllr Peter Feacey, said: “The Ashford Heritage & Memorial Charitable Foundation is delighted that the National Lottery Heritage Fund has approved our Expression of Interest to support the restoration of Ashford’s historic Mark IV First World War tank.

“We will now be invited to submit a Development Phase application, during which detailed plans, designs, and project proposals will be prepared. This restoration forms one of four major heritage projects currently being championed by the Foundation in Ashford. The project will help preserve an important war memorial and listed structure that was gifted to the people of Ashford, ensuring it can continue to be appreciated by future generations.

“This marks the Foundation’s second application to the Heritage Fund, and we would like to thank the residents of Ashford for their strong support for this much-loved local landmark. Their enthusiasm has demonstrated just how important the tank is to the town’s identity and heritage.

“We would also like to acknowledge the valuable assistance provided by the Council and its officers, who will continue to help guide the Development Phase of the project. The Council’s funding contribution has helped reinforce the significance of this rare and historic vehicle. The Ashford tank is a particularly special part of the nation’s military heritage and is believed to be the only female Mark IV tank on public display in the United Kingdom.

“This project is about far more than restoration alone. It is about protecting a unique piece of history, honouring those connected to the First World War, and safeguarding an important memorial for the people of Ashford and future generations to come.”

Further updates will be provided as the work progresses.