Newark and Sherwood District Council has approved plans to create a new and improved visitor attraction at Newark Castle and Gardens in Newark-on-Trent, Nottinghamshire. The stone Castle, a Grade I-listed Scheduled Ancient Monument, was originally built in the mid-12th century by Alexander, Bishop of Lincoln. Newark Castle has played a prominent role in British history, with evidence of both Anglo-Saxon and Norman activities, including a Norman motte and bailey castle. It is also notable as the place King John died in 1216 and for having served as key Royalist stronghold in the British Civil Wars. The gardens were designed by eminent Victorian landscape architect, H.E. Milner, to celebrate Queen Victoria’s Jubilee and be ‘a constant source of health and pleasure’. Today, they are Grade II listed and continue to provide valued green space at the centre of the town.

Now, through a funding application to the National Lottery Heritage Fund, expected to be confirmed this spring, along with a £3million allocation from Newark’s Towns Fund deal and a capital contribution, a ground-breaking project aims to see Newark Castle’s original Norman Romanesque Gatehouse, named by Historic England as the most complete example of such a structure in England, reinstated as the spectacular entrance it once was centuries ago, along with the implementation of new gallery spaces, a redesign of the Castle’s grounds and a new vision for community involvement

The District Council brought on Martin Ashley Architects, who have led the project so far, supported by Hugh Broughton Architects, and with landscaping by Urban Edge Architecture. Exhibition design specialists Nissen Richards Studio have created the project’s Interpretation Masterplan and will be working on the scheme’s exhibition design, graphic design and wayfinding, as well as heading up the community participation initiatives.

‘Our vision is to enhance the Castle, not obstruct it, and to celebrate it as a unique historical object’ Pippa Nissen of Nissen Richards Studio commented. ‘Interpretation will go beyond just offering information. Instead, it will also create meaningful ways for visitors to engage with the castle ruin and the surrounding gardens in active, often playful ways. The Castle is then no longer a backdrop, but a proud protagonist in Newark town, at the centre of experiences.’

The proposed new entrance will lead to five gallery spaces which follow the Castle’s story through time and bring its Medieval history to life through fascinating, fun and interactive interpretation including models, real and replica tactile objects and furniture, embroideries, trails and play, all designed by Nissen Richards Studio.

‘The starting point of the story-telling is the medieval castle created by Bishop Alexander the Magnificent in the 12th century’ Sophie Mitchell, Associate & Senior Architect at Nissen Richards Studio added. ‘There will be both a ticketed Castle experience, which builds a picture of the medieval world that surrounded him and his castle, and a free Gardens experience, where the focus is broader and gives overview and context.’

The development also incorporates a new facility beneath the gatehouse bridge, which will be used for both learning visits and for community groups and outreach, providing an extra space in the centre of town for residents to come together.

Elin Simonsson, Nissen Richards Studio’s Head of Interpretation & Engagement explained that: ‘For the permanent interpretation design scheme of the Castle and gardens, we will collaborate with a number of Newark-based organisations to shape interpretive interventions that become part of the permanent experiences.’

The scheme will also ensure the Castle’s grounds are well-lit to enable a safe evening experience for residents and tourists. Plans include a tower-top viewing platform, from which visitors can overlook great views of Trent Valley, whilst the landscaping will seek to enhance and protect the natural environment and green space within this historic site, establishing more biodiversity and enhancing accessibility through landscape development. The plans will see routes updated for wheelchair users, people with low mobility and those with prams or pushchairs to be able to enjoy them equally as well as increased benches and seating. Expert ecologists have also been consulted to create a planting scheme which is more wildlife friendly.

Councillor Rowan Cozens, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Heritage, Culture and the Arts at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “It’s great news that planning permission has been granted and we are now another step closer in bringing this amazing project to life. I’m delighted that the beautiful grounds will remain free for everyone. The District Council is planning to use the grounds for a range of activities and events for all the community and entry to the galleries itself will be reduced for Newark and Sherwood residents. I’m incredibly excited about the future for Newark Castle and am waiting with eagerness for the next stage in its journey.”

It’s anticipated that, once works are completed, the Castle will attract almost 17,000 visitors from outside of the district, helping to deliver sustainable economic growth as a destination attraction.