Following a Cabinet meeting on 14 May 2026, Ashford Borough Council has committed £1 million to safeguard three of the town’s most significant landmarks: the Hubert Fountain, Woodchurch Windmill, and the WWI Mark IV tank. These sites were selected as urgent priorities to ensure their preservation for future generations while enhancing the borough’s cultural identity.
The proposed plan allocates up to £300,000 to each landmark, targeting specific restoration needs. The Hubert Fountain requires critical repairs to halt deterioration, while Woodchurch Windmill needs structural work following recent storm damage to allow visitors back inside. For the Mark IV tank, the focus is on tackling corrosion and stabilising the historic vehicle. The remaining £100,000 will be used as a maintenance fund for other Council-owned heritage assets.
Council Leader Cllr Noel Ovenden emphasized that this investment reflects how deeply the community cares for these sites. Beyond physical repairs, the project aims to revitalise public spaces and create new opportunities for volunteering and education. To maximize the impact of this funding, the Council intends to collaborate with local heritage groups and seek additional external grants. Once the proposals are finalised, a formal timeline for the restoration works will be shared with the public.