Julian Cope presents Head Heritage | The Modern Antiquarian Forum

The Modern Antiquarian Forum » Stonehenge Solstice: is there a risk?	Log In to post a reply

102 messages	Topic View: Flat \| Threaded

Littlestone

5386 posts

Stonehenge Solstice: is there a risk?

Jun 30, 2010, 07:40

Yesterday (29 June) Heritage Action ran an article entitled Stonehenge Solstice: is there a risk? in which they suggested that Stonehenge at the summer solstice gatherings has become, "...a vulnerable site with huge numbers packed in, 43 drugs arrests, [this year] lots of alcohol (Round Table discussions from previous years speak of everyone’s great worries over “unacceptable levels of anti social behaviour” which we presume means drunkenness) and, the biggest problem of all, numbers so large that no-one can realistically claim that everything was or would always remain under full control."

Makes some of us think, are English Heritage yet again out of step with heritage? Is it really acceptable to turn such an iconic structure like Stonehenge into a noisy, litter-strewn and potentially dangerous place for even one day? Heritage Action, in its article, goes on to suggest possible alternatives to the present 'arrangements' at solstice time - eg, "...placing “keep off” style signs actually on the fallen stones, stationing the four levels of officials right next to those stones and perhaps considering limiting numbers to a level where control can be better maintained. ...if fifty thousand turned up, that’s what would have to be decided. On the evidence of this latest solstice, twenty thousand is far too many to control in such a place and the fact something pretty bad hasn’t happened is down to pure luck. How that could be done is a puzzle. A system of drawing lots? A ban on ANY alcohol (thereby discouraging the pure party animals)? An entrance fee (except for the proven poor or genuine pagans)? Restricting the numbers actually inside the circle (by lots or by waiting list from amongst those with a genuine spiritual or other interest)?"

As a body serving the public, and committed to saving our heritage, perhaps English Heritage would like to comment here (or on the Heritage Journal) with its plans for future solstice gatherings at Stonehenge.

Topic Outline:

Stonehenge Solstice: is there a risk? – Littlestone, Jun 30, 2010, 07:40


The Modern Antiquarian Forum Index