The grounds of Hertford Castle will be transformed by a ‘once in a generation’ investment of £3.5 million, from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Thanks to National Lottery players, Hertford Town Council and its partners, East Herts District Council and Hertfordshire County Council’s Countryside Management Service, will deliver their ambitious plans for renewing Hertford Castle’s greenspace - subject to statutory permissions and consents.
Over the past year and a half, a sensitive and ambitious masterplan focused on heritage conservation, biodiversity enhancement, accessibility and community benefit has been developed. The Hertford Castle Greenspace Renewal (HCGR) project has undertaken extensive surveys, heritage and ecological assessments, community consultation and design development.
To read the full Hertford Town Council press release see: Hertford Town Council wins £3.5m investment for Hertford Castle grounds project
What’s Planned
Key proposals for Hertford Castle’s greenspace include:
- Conservation of the motte, curtain wall, icehouse and other historic features.
- Restoration of the River Lea’s riverbanks and improved wildlife habitats.
- A complete redesign of the children’s play area.
- Improved access through upgraded paths, bridges and step-free routes.
- Sensitive improvements to the Ashley Webb Shelter.
- New and improved seating across the site.
- Enhanced planting and biodiversity to support wildlife.
- New interpretation, signage and heritage information.
- A full programme of community activities, volunteering and events.
These plans have been shaped by specialist input, alongside feedback from the community and stakeholders throughout the Development Phase.
To view the full illustrative masterplan please click the button below.
Get Involved!
Various events and activities are coming soon. There will also be opportunities for volunteers to help in a number of ways.
If you have any queries, or would like to register your interest in volunteering, please email castlegreenspace@hertford.gov.uk.
About the Heritage Fund
The National Lottery Heritage Fund is the largest funder for the UK’s heritage. Using money raised by National Lottery players we support projects that connect people and communities to heritage. Our vision is for heritage to be valued, cared for and sustained for everyone, now and in the future. From historic buildings, our industrial legacy and the natural environment, to collections, traditions, stories and more. Heritage can be anything from the past that people value and want to pass on to future generations. We believe in the power of heritage to ignite the imagination, offer joy and inspiration, and to build pride in place and connection to the past.
