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The appointment of a chair and 2 commissioners to the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Wales has been welcomed by Lord Elis-Thomas AM, Deputy Minister for Culture, Tourism and Sport.

First published:
29 March 2019
Last updated:

This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government

The Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Wales is the unique, independent national archive and investigation service for Wales, dedicated to the authoritative recording and interpretation of our rich historic environment.

The commission sought to recruit a new chair to provide strategic guidance and build positive relationships with a wide range of stakeholders.

The Royal Commission also sought to strengthen and diversify its board, and so moved to appoint 2 new commissioners who have significant expertise in 20th-century architecture and maritime heritage, 2 growing areas of the Royal Commission’s work.

Lord Elis-Thomas said:

“Professor Edwards brings with her a wealth of experience, knowledge and skills; her appointment and that of two new Commissioners will bring enormous benefits to the Royal Commission and wider historic environment sector in Wales. The new Chair will lead a committed and enthusiastic group of commissioners, and a dedicated, highly skilled team of staff. I congratulate her on her appointment, and wish her and the Royal Commission every success in the valuable work they undertake to safeguard the rich and varied historic environment of Wales.”

Christopher Catling, Chief Executive of the Royal Commission, said:

“Professor Edwards takes over as Chair at an exciting time for the Royal Commission when we are supporting the North Wales Slate Industry bid for World Heritage Status, undertaking innovative research into the impacts of climate change on Wales's coastal heritage, working with young people to explore contemporary ideas of heritage in our 'Unloved Heritage?’ project and engaging with communities around Wales to research the history of the U-boat war in which many brave sailors lost their lives around the coast of Wales in the effort to keep Britain fed at the end of the First World War.

“Our commissioners play a vital role in setting the strategic direction of the commission, and we greatly look forward to the contributions that all 3 will make to our work in the future.

Royal Commission Member Appointments 2019

  • Professor Nancy Edwards (Chair)
  • Dr Hayley Roberts (Commissioner)
  • Mr Jonathan Vining (Commissioner)