Hastings Castle conservation works begin following Historic England funding award

Following the recent award of £288,500 from Historic England’s Heritage at Risk Capital Fund grant programme, alongside a £200,000 contribution from Hastings Borough Council, the first phase of conservation activity at Hastings Castle has begun with vegetation clearance works.

The investment will support essential conservation work to help protect one of Hastings' most important historic landmarks for future generations.

As the first stage of the programme, specialist contractors will carefully remove vegetation from sections of the castle walls and the motte. The work will reveal more of the historic structure, improve views of the monument and allow conservation specialists to better assess the condition of the site and plan future repairs. 

Vegetation growing on parts of the castle walls and surrounding earthworks currently obscures areas of the monument and can affect the condition of the historic fabric. Its removal will help visitors better appreciate the scale and significance of the castle, while supporting its long-term conservation.

The works will also help restore views of the castle and enhance understanding of its place in England's Norman heritage, including its connection to the Bayeux Tapestry.

This project forms part of the council's ongoing commitment to protecting and celebrating Hastings' historic environment. Further updates, including information on future works and visitor access arrangements, will be shared as the conservation programme progresses.

Hastings Borough Council thanks residents, visitors, local businesses and heritage organisations for their continued interest and support. Works are due to be completed by 16 November. 

Hastings Castle is currently open every day from 11am - 4pm, visit the Hastings Castle website for more details.  

Find out more

•    For details about the Hastings Castle and West Hill Project, funded through the Government's Hastings Town  Deal programme, visit the Hastings Castle World Heritage Destination page
•    To find out more about the wider project, visit the West Hill Project website. 

Notes for editors

The Hastings Castle work is being funded by Historic England’s Heritage At Risk Capital Fund grant programme. The programme supports the repair and conservation of historic buildings, helping secure their long-term future and enabling them to play a continuing role in the life of their communities.