Campaigners call for 'urgent' castle repairs

The main parts of the castle that remain date from the early 14th Century

Campaigners have called for urgent repair and maintenance work at Knaresborough's 900-year-old castle, warning the landmark's future could be at risk.

Kathy Allday, chair of the Knaresborough Museum Association, who started a petition calling for repairs, said the castle was in a "very poor state".

She said: "It's very upsetting and this has been going on for years, if not decades, and nobody's doing anything about it."

The castle and its grounds are owned by the Duchy of Lancaster but are maintained by North Yorkshire Council. The council said it was committed to ensuring the castle "remains a proud and viable part of the town for generations to come".

The petition states that if the castle deteriorates further it could be closed to the public and in turn jeopardise the town's tourist income.

"The castle is a really important landmark for the town, it's got an incredibly important history and I feel like it should be treated and given the priority it deserves," said Mrs Allday.

Petition signatories say they are concerned about weeds in the castle walls

Campaigners are planning to stage a demonstration at the castle to "air their concerns" next weekend.

The petition also calls for revenue generated by the council from entrance tickets and parking at Castle Yard to be ring-fenced and spent solely on the castle estate.

Nic Harne, North Yorkshire Council's corporate director for community development, said: "Knaresborough Castle is an important heritage and cultural asset for the town, as well as a popular attraction for residents and visitors.

"While the facility has generated annual revenues of around £92,000, the running costs exceed this figure, and we do not anticipate the situation will improve.

"We recognise the need to invest and have spent almost £400,000 on repair work in recent decades.

"Despite this, it is anticipated that significant funds will be needed in the future to ensure maintenance is of the standard required."

The exact origins of Knaresborough Castle remain unknown but medieval financial records indicate the stronghold has existed from at least 1129.

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