Specialist restoration works and a brand-new visitor centre have now been handed over by contractor G F Tomlinson, marking a key juncture in the Castle’s redevelopment.

“After two years, we are incredibly proud and honoured to be handing over this project which has been a big part of our lives,” says Chris Flint, director and general manager of G F Tomlinson. “It has brought much joy to our hardworking team to provide works for such a pivotal, historic landmark site – promoting and enhancing the rich heritage of Nottingham.”

Finalised work on site now includes an extension to the Ducal Palace, significant mechanical and electrical works, specialist restoration throughout the Castle, improved access to the underground cave network and the construction of a new visitor centre.

The transformed Nottingham Castle is set to open to the public in early 2021 once all fit-out works are complete. These final elements will deliver innovative digital installations in the Robin Hood and Rebellion Galleries, with landscaping of the grounds and the creation of a new play area also set to be added externally.

Next stage of ambitious £30m restoration begins at Nottingham Castle

“The completion of this part of the Castle works on such a historic site and despite the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic and periods of adverse weather is a big achievement,” according to Dave Trimble, Nottingham City Council’s portfolio holder for leisure and culture.

“The impact of these works will have a lasting impression on the city, bolstering tourism with the restoration of fascinating buildings which lie on an iconic cave network and the construction of the new visitor centre.

“We are now well on track for completing the final redevelopment work including brand new digital installations featuring Robin Hood and Rebellion as the excitement builds towards the castle reopening early next year.”

The £30 million Nottingham Castle scheme has received funding from National Lottery Heritage Fund, D2N2, Nottingham Castle Trust and Nottingham City Council.

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The team on site from left to right:

Keri Usherwood, Communications and Marketing Manager, Nottingham City Council
Richard Oldfield, Project Manager, G F Tomlinson
Nigel Hawkins, Head of Culture & Libraries, Nottingham City Council
Portfolio Holder for Leisure & Culture, Councillor Dave Trimble
Hugh White, Director of Sport, Culture and Parks, Nottingham City Council
Kevin Dodds, Associate Construction Director, G F Tomlinson
Richard Hamblin, Project Director, Nottingham City Council
Andy Boam, Contracts Manager, G F Tomlinson
Josh Barber, Project Manager, Mace
Richard Smith, Operations Director, Mace