Posted on 4th Jul
The renovation of Newark Castle has begun, marking a significant milestone for the Castle Gatehouse Project.
Backed by funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the Government’s Towns Fund, and Newark and Sherwood District Council, the transformative project will secure the castle’s future, improve public access, and enhance and protect the surrounding gardens and green space.
The castle has stood at the town’s entrance for nearly 900 years, a local landmark and a symbol of the town’s heritage.
Recognised by Historic England as the most complete example of its kind, the gatehouse will be at the heart of the ambitious restoration project.
Plans include rebuilt rooms, new gallery spaces with lift access, interactive displays, and a tower-top viewing platform offering views of the Trent Valley.
The project will also protect the listed Victorian gardens and enhance the natural surroundings with a new lighting scheme to create a safe ‘after dark’ experience. Special floodlights will highlight architectural features, while pathways will feature low-level lighting.
Wildlife will be welcomed too, with bat corridors and roosts included in the design.
Throughout the project’s early development, the plan has evolved to better reflect the community’s hopes for the site, with residents offering feedback to help shape the final designs. Wildlife-friendly planting, more things to do, more places to sit, and paths suitable for wheelchairs and mobility scooters have all been implemented into the project as part of the feedback.
The council has worked closely with specialists, including archaeologists, ecologists and access consultants.
Coun Rowan Cozens, deputy leader and portfolio holder for Heritage, Culture and the Arts, 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.”
Liz Bates, area director, Midlands and East at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “We are delighted to be supporting these ambitious plans to revitalise the historic Newark Castle. The story of the castle dates back beyond the 12th Century, and it’s fantastic that support from National Lottery players will keep this historic site relevant for future generations.”
During the initial phase of works, there will be public drop-in sessions with project staff to keep people informed and answer any questions. The first will take place on Tuesday, 29th July, with further sessions planned in August and September, with both evening and weekend options available.
As a result of the initial investigation work, the council said it became clear that to safeguard the public, the castle’s archaeological features, and the trees, Newark Castle and its grounds and gardens would be required to fully close to the public from Monday, 7th July for one week. From Monday, 14th July, a limited section of the gardens will reopen. However, the rest of the site will remain closed for the duration of the work taking place, which is expected to be until autumn 2026.
Carys Coulton-Jones, business manager for Heritage and Culture at the district council, said: “Over the last few months we have tried to find alternative solutions. However it has been made clear from specialist advice that restricting access is essential to protect sensitive archaeological zones, tree root protection areas, and to ensure the highest level of public safety throughout the project.
“We sincerely apologise for the disruption it will cause us all. Like our residents and visitors, we are extremely sad that not all the grounds can be open for the duration of the work. However, upon completion, the Castle Gardens will once again be free to access to all, ensuring this cherished space can be enjoyed by residents and visitors for generations to come.”
