Member Article

Auckland Castle set for regeneration following £9m funding boost

Auckland Castle has received a £9m cash funding boost from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF), creating 130 jobs and acting as a major catalyst for the regeneration of Bishop Auckland and the surrounding area.

The investment means work can now begin on building a two storey museum extension, and renovating the centuries’ old castle’s state rooms.

David Ronn, Auckland Castle Trust’s Chief Executive, said he was “absolutely delighted” that the project had secured the grant, one of the biggest made by the Heritage Lottery Fund in the North East of England.

“It is fantastic news not just for Auckland Castle but the whole area, a real vote of public confidence. The HLF decision comes on the back of two years of hard work by a great many people.”

“To say that we are absolutely delighted is an understatement, and the size of this award proves that the North East is taken seriously by the Heritage Lottery Fund.”

He added: “The value of this grant to both Auckland Castle and the immediate area cannot be understated. The work it will allow us to do at the castle, and all the activity that will flow from that – job, training and volunteering opportunities - will play a major part in helping to breathe new life into Bishop Auckland.

“Regeneration and growth, both of the castle and the town, has always been central to the Trust’s long-term plans, and the development of a new museum wing and the renovation of the castle go to the heart of that.”

Chris Mullin, Chairman of HLF North East, said: “This project clearly demonstrates how by investing in heritage, the National Lottery can have a direct impact on the economic health of our local communities.

“Thanks to Lottery players, this investment in Auckland Castle will not only restore this nationally important part of our heritage, it will help regenerate the local economy of Bishop Auckland, which has suffered more than most from the decline of traditional industries.”

The Auckland Castle Trust has pledged £7m towards the total £17m cost of the project, which includes a museum extension and overall restoration scheme, with the HLF grant making up the remainder.

The HLF had already awarded initial support of £1m in 2013 to develop the proposals, taking the granting body’s total commitment to the project to £10m.

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →