£12.4m for Lincoln Castle repairs

A multi-million-pound investment programme to protect Lincoln’s medieval castle has been given the go ahead.

Originally built by William the Conqueror in 1068 the castle is to undergo £12.4m worth of essential repairs over four years to preserve the landmark for future generations.

The first phase of work by Lincolnshire County Council begins this summer and will prioritise the monument’s internal walls - with emergency structural repairs to the stonework of the Observatory Tower, Lucy Tower and the East Wall.  

Future phases will see a survey and associated repairs carried out to the external walls, as well as maintenance to more of the impressive buildings in the castle grounds, including the Bath House, Cobb Hall, and Gatehouse Lodge.

Cllr Natalie Oliver, executive councillor for culture, said: “As one of the county’s most treasured landmarks, Lincoln Castle has protected our city for almost 1,000 years. Now it needs our protection.

"This long-term maintenance programme – worth more than £12m over the next four years – will ensure the walls receive the proper care and attention they deserve.

“This is a substantial investment and one that will ensure visitors can continue to experience the castle’s incredible history, protecting and preserving one of the jewels in Lincolnshire’s crown, now, and for generations to come.”

The castle plays an important role in Lincolnshire’s economy. Last year it brought in £11m to the county, with people visiting from around the world to see one of only four original copies of the 1215 Magna Carta and enjoy sell-out music events – there will be no disruption to the series of summer concerts this year.

Pictured above from left are Jennie Clarke, Senior Project Manager, Cllr Natalie Oliver, Executive Councillor for Culture, and Kimberley Vickers, Culture Service Manager.