Castle grounds to be transformed with £3.5m grant

A project to transform the grounds of a Grade I listed building, situated on the site of a Norman castle, has received National Lottery funding.

The £3.5m grant will be used to conserve Hertford Castle ground's historical features, as well as improve seating, planting and access.

Hertford Town Council said further planning was expected to take place before work could start throughout 2028 and 2029.

Councillor Ann Woodward, chairwoman of the development and leisure committee, said the investment would "improve the site in so many ways, for the benefit of all - for generations to come".

The gatehouse, which dates back to the mid 15th Century, is all that remains of Hertford Castle.

It was a royal palace for more than 300 years, where Elizabeth I spent much of her childhood.

On the site stands a motte, built soon after 1066, which is now the oldest surviving part.

The council said it had agreed to commit nearly £500,000 over the course of the project.

It added that ecological surveys had confirmed the presence of otters, bats and water voles in the grounds of Hertford Castle.

Liz Bates, from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, said the investment would support a new programme of community activities and events.

This would ensure "visitors of all ages find a renewed appreciation for this important heritage site", she said.

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