Plans unveiled for Barnard Castle regeneration

Plans to safeguard and revitalise a historic County Durham landmark are set to be shared with residents and businesses at a community event.

Durham County Council and Raby Estates are inviting local people to learn more about the proposed Barnard Castle gateway project, which aims to improve access to the castle and strengthen its contribution to the town’s economy and cultural life.

The proposals have been developed in partnership with a wider stakeholder group, including Cultura Trust, English Heritage, Historic England and Barnard Castle Town Council.

Subject to securing funding, the project would conserve and enhance the castle’s historic fabric, improve access to its Outer Ward and bring the area back into use.

The scheme could also create a stronger connection between the castle and Market Place.

Duncan Peake, chief executive at Raby Estates said: “We are pleased to be working alongside Durham County Council and the stakeholder group to explore ways of regenerating and opening up the wider Barnard Castle heritage site.

“The plans are at a very early stage, but if we are successful in securing funding and the necessary consents, our thoughts are to create a new visitor attraction and a place in which we can all take pride in, with the wider aim of removing the Castle from the Historic England Heritage at Risk register.

“This will need to be a community-led project if it is to be successful and we’re looking forward to hearing the thoughts and suggestions from local residents.”

The engagement event will take place this Wednesday (October 21), at 28 The Market Place, the former NatWest Bank building acquired by Raby Estates three years ago.

Two drop-in sessions will run from 1pm to 3pm and 5pm to 7pm, giving attendees an opportunity to view early designs and speak with project representatives.

Complimentary English Heritage tickets to visit Barnard Castle during the October half-term holiday will also be available at the event.

Councillor Karen Allison, Durham County Council’s cabinet member for leisure, tourism, regeneration and high street, added: “In collaboration with Raby Estates, we are pleased to be exploring ways that we can safeguard the future of the Castle in Barnard Castle and regenerate the site for future generations.

“This engagement event is the perfect opportunity for residents and visitors of the historic town to hear about our ideas, as well as providing their own thoughts and suggestions on the future of the landmark.”

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