The renovation of Newark Castle has received a further £2.5m boost that will fund work to open up previously inaccessible underground spaces, including three dungeons.

Newark Castle is undergoing multi-million pound works to open the original gatehouse, restore access to parts of the surviving walls, and enhance and protect the surrounding gardens and green space.

Newark and Sherwood District Council said the additional funding, which is set to be allocated by the East Midlands Combined County Authority, would allow phase two of the project to take place.

The castle has stood at the town’s entrance for nearly 900 years, a local landmark, and a symbol of the town’s heritage.

Originally built in the mid-12th Century by Bishop Alexander of Lincoln, it survived three sieges during the English Civil War, but was partly demolished on the orders of Oliver Cromwell.

As part of the second phase new ladders and lighting will be added to two dungeons in the north-west tower as part of the Newark Castle Gatehouse Project.

The debtors’ dungeon in the south-west tower will undergo improvements, including the installation of a floating glass floor to allow visitors to view historic features beneath.

It is hoped the undercroft, previously used for storage, will become a community venue, hosting live music, educational visits, and weddings.

Sarah Clarke, project delivery manager, said the public had requested access to the dungeons.

East Midlands mayor Claire Ward, said the additional funding would bring the history of the site to life for visitors.

She added: “Unlocking the castle’s hidden underground spaces will give people the chance to discover a fascinating part of Newark’s past that has been closed to the public for years, while ensuring these important historic spaces are protected for generations to come.”

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