Norwich Castle reopens after five years of restoration work
It's one of the largest heritage projects opening in the UK, this year
Norwich Castle is reopening today - after five years of restoration work.
This project's included restoring original floor levels in the Grade One listed keep and re-creating the great hall.
The site's 'Medieval Keep' has also been brought back to it's former glory following over £13 million from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
It's one of the largest heritage projects opening in the UK, this year.
Restoration work was initially expected to cost about £20m, but that has risen to £27.5m, which has required Norfolk County Council to provide more funds.
According to a report to cabinet members, there have been several significant challenges to overcome throughout the construction project.
This includes the unexpected discovery of hidden Norman and Victorian features, plus the need to replace a leaking roof, which has set back the schedule for the full reopening of the 900-year-old building.
Costs have also escalated due to the project being affected by the Covid pandemic and difficulties obtaining steel because of the war in Ukraine.
NCC plans to fund the increased costs by using money already budgeted for growth, investment and highways projects.
It will redirect £2.75m from money intended to be used to support the development of an energy park in Great Yarmouth. That facility has not yet been developed in any way so far.
The remaining £1.99m will be removed from funding for highways projects.
This could mean road improvement schemes may need to be deferred due to the loss of cash earmarked for such works.
"The reborn castle will draw in visitors from around the world"
Councillor Andrew Jamieson Deputy Leader and cabinet member for finance at Norfolk County Council said: “We expect this project’s impact to go far beyond the walls of the keep.
“The reborn castle will draw in visitors from around the world, bolstering the reputation of Norfolk’s culture and heritage for decades to come.”
The Castle and Museum will 'fully' re-open to the public on 13th August, (next Wednesday).
'The Dungeons' and 'The main Egyptian gallery' are still closed to the public, at the moment.