Country park's £35m masterplan set to be shelved

A report to Derbyshire County Council says selling Elvaston Castle would be considered in the future if an opportunity arises

Plans for a £35m revamp at a Derbyshire country park are set to be scrapped after it was deemed "no longer financially viable".

Elvaston Castle had been set to receive a new cafe, access road and car park along with restoration work on many of its listed buildings.

However, site owner Derbyshire County Council is to reconsider its options for the estate due to costs rising since the proposal was first submitted - and may look to sell the site in the future.

The authority's cabinet will meet on 14 November to discuss a report that explains why the previous masterplan should be withdrawn and suggests more affordable changes.

Phase one of the project failed to gain the approval of South Derbyshire District Council in June 2023, and the overall project faced backlash from campaign groups over its scale and the impact of the proposed new car park and access road.

The masterplan began its development more than six years ago with the aim of increasing visitor numbers and revenue at the heritage site.

The council said the "complex nature of the project" had seen potential costs for the masterplan "spiral" in this time, adding that grants which might have helped fund it are no longer available.

The report to the authority's cabinet said: "Whilst operating country parks is a service that the council wishes to provide, it recognises that management of heritage assets is not a core activity and potentially could be delivered more effectively by a third-party operator, managing agent or under different ownership.

"The council will therefore review on an ongoing basis the options for transfer of ownership, or partnership, with a suitable third party."

Financial support 'limited'

The more affordable proposals recommended in the report include upgrades for the equestrian and showground facilities, modernising the castle courtyard and increased marketing, aimed at providing a quicker return on investment.

Tony King, cabinet member for clean growth and regeneration at the authority, said the financial climate had "changed drastically" since development of the masterplan began.

"Costs have risen massively and any external financial support is very limited," he said.

"If we leave Elvaston in its current condition that, too, will come at an increasingly unaffordable cost.

"It therefore makes sense to look at the potential for a new approach that addresses immediate challenges while also examining all options for a viable long-term future."

If the new proposals are approved, talks will be held with key interest groups including the Elvaston Castle and Gardens Trust.

Trust chair Dr Peter Robinson said: "The trust remains committed to supporting Elvaston and will be working on a programme of fundraising, volunteering, education and events.

"Over the past three years we have secured £50,000 in grant funding and will be furthering this work to enhance and improve the estate."