An Historic Job Opportunity in Dover!

Dover District Council (DDC) is recruiting an Engagement Officer to lead an exciting programme of events and activities designed to get the public involved in the £9.1m Lottery funded restoration of the Maison Dieu in Dover. 

Alongside the restoration and conservation of the historic fabric of the building, the project delivers an activity plan designed with the local community. 

The plan has a strong economic development and skills focus and is a key part of bringing the Maison Dieu back to the heart of the community and aiding the regeneration of Dover.   

DDC is looking for someone with experience of working with local communities and the heritage sector, and who can demonstrate fresh thinking, creativity, and project management skills.

Jon Iveson, Head of Museums and Culture at Dover District Council, said: “This is a great opportunity to work on one of the most exciting heritage and community projects in the district.  

“The reawakening of the Maison Dieu is a key part of our plans for the regeneration of the town centre, putting heritage and culture at the heart of the community.”   

Preparatory works on the Maison Dieu are set to start in the summer.

For more details, and to apply online, visit dover.gov.uk/jobs

Notes to editors:

1. ‘Maison Dieu: Reawakening a Gothic Fantasy’ will see the restoration of internationally significant decorative schemes by the renowned Victorian neo-Gothic architect, William Burges, a new street-level visitor entrance to the Connaught Hall, along with improved access throughout the building. 
2. The project creates a sustainable future for the Maison Dieu by bringing redundant spaces back into commercial use, including restoring the Mayor’s Parlour as a holiday let in conjunction with The Landmark Trust, and a unique new café in the space once occupied by Victorian gaol cells!
3. Once complete in 2023 the Maison Dieu will be permanently open to the public for the first time in its 800-year history and contributing to the creation of a heritage quarter in Dover town centre.