Cardigan Castle's future use is under discussion

The 12th Century Cardigan Castle officially comes in the ownership of Ceredigion County Council from Monday.

The authority is now looking upon the monument - the scene of the first National Eisteddfod in 1176 - as an 'icon' to revitalise tourism in the town.

It paid �500,000 for the castle which had originally been placed on the market by its elderly owner two years ago with a �1m price tag. Around �100,000 of the figure was deducted for debts.

Now it is to appoint consultants within the next few weeks to advise on a programme of restoration work and to seek future options for the castle.

Cardigan Castle's historic importance Held first National Eisteddfod in 1176 under Rhys ap Gruffydd Henry Tudor stayed en route to Battle of Bosworth Catherine of Aragon received castle in her dowry on her marriage to Prince Arthur in 1501 Castle was "slighted and burned" by parliamentary forces in 1655 civil war

The ancient monument site had fallen into disrepair through years of long-term neglect and its south wall has had to be retained by steel stanchions.

The council says there are serious health and safety issues which need to be tackled before the site can be safely opened to the public.

However, all kinds of tourism-based options are being considered for the castle once restoration has taken place and the local authority says it is seeking help with the development.

"The authority would welcome innovative ideas of how the castle could be developed and maybe the private sector could be interested in certain aspects of the development or the uses of the castle," said Councillor Ray Quant, Cabinet member for economic development.

Local people mounted a vigorous campaign to save the castle from total ruin with thousands signing a petition - a fact recognised by council leaders.

"Cardigan Castle is recognised in the Cardigan and South Ceredigion Regeneration Strategy as an 'icon' tourism project to revitalise the town," said council leader, Councillor Dai Lloyd Evans.

Possible future uses Celtic banquets Re-establish links with the first National Eisteddfod Interpretive centre housing gorsedd regalia Outdoor and arts and performance centre in association with development at Theatr Mwldan

"Now that Ceredigion County Council has successfully negotiated the purchase, we will start the long process of bringing the castle back into 'life' for the benefit of the local community."

But he warned: "It will take time - a long time- but at the end of this process, the valuable asset will recapture its significance and status within Cardigan."