Scaffolding removed at castle entrance

Repairs to Lincoln Castle's east gate included an extensive survey and removal of loose stones

Scaffolding has been removed from the main entrance to Lincoln Castle following maintenance work.

Repairs to the medieval building included extensive surveying of the east gate and removal of loose stones.

Some parts of the walls and grounds had been temporarily closed during the work.

The head of culture at Lincolnshire County Council, which runs the castle, said the work was necessary because they "want it to be at its best."

Work at the Castle's west gate continues

Lincoln Castle was opened by William the Conqueror in 1068 on the site of original Roman fortifications.

Scaffolding on the east gate of the medieval building has been removed after work to remove loose stones, known as defrassing.

Will Mason, head of culture at Lincolnshire County Council, said: "It's not just about having masons hitting this beautiful building with hammers and chisels."

He said the technique helps prevent water getting into cracks, which can cause issues.

"It's a very gentle removal of loose stonework that then facilitates ensuring that we can keep it watertight - or as best as you ever can," he said.

Despite the scaffolding being removed, more will have to go up again for further in-depth work in the coming weeks.

Councillor Lindsey Cawrey, executive councillor for culture at Lincolnshire County Council, said: "It may seem odd to take down scaffolding, just to put it back up again at a later date but this would always be needed, as the initial set-up allowed for one type of work to take place, and the second set-up will allow for specialist repairs."

Mr Mason said: "It's really, really important we fulfil our duty of care to make sure this incredibly important scheduled monument is protected."

"When a building is older then inevitably there is more work that needs to be done to ensure the castle stands for another thousand years."

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