Castle revamp project building work under way

Costs for the ambitious project have risen but substantial construction work has started

Ground work has begun on a multi-million pound project that has been described as a "game changer" for one of Nottinghamshire's best-known historic sites.

The scheme at Newark Castle will open up the original gatehouse, restore access to parts of the surviving walls and improve accessibility across the site.

Machines have started to dig a hole, which will contain a new room for school groups and lectures.

It is hoped the project, which was originally budgeted at £5.6m but needed a £1.02m bailout in February, will be completed in late 2026.

Project delivery manager Sarah Clarke said the scheme was aimed at helping the whole community

The infamous King John died at the castle in 1216, but a large part of the structure was demolished after a protracted siege in 1646.

The facelift has been several years in the planning, with archaeologists investigating the site before building work began.

Work will also see the gatehouse being reroofed, new exhibition spaces built and improved access to the formal Victorian gardens that fill the former interior of the building.

Sarah Clarke, project delivery manager, said: "We are creating a new room underneath the steps that will lead to the gatehouse.

"That room is going to be used for school visits, community events and workshops.

"It is going to be a real game changer to have that kind of space."

Wheelchair access and bee-friendly plants have also been included in the designs

It is hoped that by boosting visitor numbers to the castle, it will provide economic benefits to the wider town.

Provision is also being made for wildlife, with pollinator friendly flower beds and bat roosts included in the design.

While it was planned to open the site in autumn next year, Ms Clarke emphasised this was dependent on many factors.

"All these things can change with a project as complicated as this one.

"This morning we have found some archaeology, some remains of stonework and we have now got to find out what that is.

"It is quite possible it is medieval stonework, so we will have a little pause while we figure that out, so these kind of delays can make a difference," she said.

Drop-in sessions will be held to keep the public informed about the project's progress

The project is backed by funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the government's Towns Fund, and Newark and Sherwood District Council.

Rowan Cozens, deputy leader of the council, said: "This project ensures the castle remains standing strong for another 900 years while ensuring that accessibility and biodiversity are at its very heart.

"We'll be able to open new spaces in the castle to the public and provide exhibitions telling of Newark's rich medieval history."

Drop-in sessions with project staff are being planned for August and September, with both evening and weekend options available.