Ambitious plans for Castle Grounds move forward

Plans to improve the grounds of Hertford Castle received a boost after a £300,000 grant was approved by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

The initial grant will allow East Herts Council and Hertford Town Council to fully develop and cost detailed proposals, including technical surveys and public consultations to bring forward designs that will improve access, increase biodiversity and promote the site’s history. Once these plans have been developed, the partnership will be able to apply for the reserved £2m delivery grant to bring the plans to life.

The proposals include:

• The refurbishment of the Ashley Webb shelter
• The installation of additional interpretation boards to introduce visitors to the history of the grounds and Castle Gatehouse
• A cantilever walkway from the town centre along the riverbank, allowing the ancient motte to be opened up
• A new bridge to improve access to the grounds
• Landscaping enhancements and improvements to the river to create better wildlife habitats
• Re-location and upgrading of the play area

The plans were formulated and submitted to the National Lottery by the previous Conservative-led council, with the batton having been taken up by the newly-elected council run by the Greens and Labour Party.

Councillor Alex Daar, East Herts Executive Member for Communities, said: "I am delighted that The National Lottery Heritage Fund has seen the potential of this project. The improvements will make the grounds of Hertford Castle more accessible to all, highlight the rich history of the site and give residents a vibrant green space to enjoy in the centre of town."

Councillor Rachel Carter, Chair of Hertford Town Councils’ Community Services Committee, said: "This is wonderful news, and this investment will help us achieve our goals of developing a more sustainable and accessible green space, including a new playground for families to enjoy, and creating new ways to engage with and learn about Hertford’s rich history. We are grateful to The National Lottery Heritage Fund and National Lottery players for helping to preserve the ground’s past while ensuring that its future is equally inspiring."

Robyn Llewellyn, Director of Midlands & East at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: "I am delighted that The National Lottery Heritage Fund is supporting Hertford Castle Park & Garden with its plans to promote the site’s rich history, improve access and increase biodiversity. This funding, which has been made possible thanks to National Lottery players, will significantly enhance this gateway to the city’s cultural offer, ensuring that local communities and visitors can enjoy the natural heritage setting of the medieval Castle."