The beloved 400-year-old Angel Inn Hotel in the centre of Midhurst,  along with two other ancient properties, was tragically burned down in March 2023. This devastating loss reverberated through our once vibrant and beautiful medieval town, adversely impacting businesses and our local community.

 Not only the Angel Inn but the adjoining 16th century buildings were badly affected. This particularly applies to the 16th century wall painting in The Olive and Vine, a unique and rare example of wall art of that period, depicting the biblical story of Naboth's vineyard. As we understand, the delay to work on this site is due to a decision taken by Historic England in the immediate aftermath of the fire, that the remaining 19th century frontage of the Angel Inn must be preserved at all costs. As a result of this and because it is inherently unstable, (consisting predominantly of plaster), the site cannot be cleared until this is stabilised.  In other words no works can be carried out on the other properties affected until the Angel Site itself is cleared and made safe. This means that this unique wall painting in the house in which H.G Wells once resided is open to the elements and covered in debris.  Surely it makes much more sense for the frontage to be taken down as soon as possible, the site cleared and the wall painting protected.

We the residents of Midhurst, demand transparency from Historic England as to why they are happy to let a 16th century wall painting disintegrate in order to save a frontage which dramatically post dates the original listed building which was destroyed.

Whilst the owners are hoping for an insurance settlement to be made, they point to the fact that it is now twenty months since the fire and the insurers are still dragging the matter out. It may well be that a settlement is still someway off and  winter will take its toll on the building and in particular the medieval wall painting. Therefore, any further delay imposed by the restrictions of Historic England will need to be lifted immediately. The structure needs to be rebuilt without further delay. The economic impact on our town has been dramatic.

 Please sign this petition to pressure the relevant authorities to ensure the swift restoration of the Angel Inn Hotel site.