Funding approved to secure future of Newark Castle

Funding has been approved to secure the future of one of Newark's biggest and most recognisable landmarks.

Newark and Sherwood district councillors voted to allocate £570,000 for repairs to Newark Castle at Monday night's policy and finance committee.

The castle has been designated as an ancient monument by Historic England due to its significance.

It is also of architectural and archaeological worth, having the most complete example of a Romanesque gatehouse in England.

Council leader David Lloyd, who is also chairman of the committee, said: “The castle is at the heart of Newark, both in terms of location and metaphorically.

"While it was sadly mistreated by our Newark ancestors in the 17th Century, now is the time for us to show it the care and deference it deserves, ensuring this stunning 900-year-old building can go on to be enjoyed for generations to come.”

A condition survey, carried out by qualified heritage specialists, was delivered last month and recommended a series of repairs to prevent the further decay of the 'highly-significant historic fabric' and ensure the safety of the public who regularly visit the castle and grounds.

These will be able to commence soon now that funding has been secured.

The work will also pave the way for the anticipated gatehouse project to progress, mitigating the risk of unforeseen emergency work as the new visitor attraction and community hub are built.

Member Roger Jackson said: "The potential of the castle is great — it's something that brings people to Newark.

"I've been very fortunate and I've been around lots of the rooms that are able to be seen which are not open to the general public.

"I think that if we got the gatehouse re-done and if we can open up these other rooms, there could be a strong revenue stream coming in from the castle if we use it and sell it properly.

"We have a potential there with Newark Castle — its walls and surroundings are probably one of the best in the country to a certain extent.

"It's absolutely full of history and if we marketed it right, it could be a revenue stream coming forward."

Members of the committee voted unanimously to support the funding, quoting numerous potential benefits of the works.

Keith Girling said despite the regeneration works, the castle grounds should remain free for everyone to enjoy.

He said: "Obviously we've got to keep an eye on what revenue we can bring in by using the castle, but it's very important that we also keep an eye on the fact that we've got to keep a lot of it free to members of the public.

"That was a very strong message from members of Newark, who live in the town and frequent that castle on a regular basis. They value it and they want to keep it free for them and I think that's really important.

"It's about looking at what we can charge for and doing it properly and making it worthwhile.

"We've got to keep an eye on it — it's Newark's castle and it was built there for a reason. It's a strategic place— it's got a river, the A17, A1 and A46 which were all dominated in those days. I think the last siege was 1646.

"It's important that the people of Newark are able to use it, enjoy it and keep their love for it."