Medieval castle project set for green light

Plans to refurbish parts of Caerphilly Castle and add new visitor facilities at the heritage attraction have been recommended for approval. It is expected that the proposed development would enhance the tourism potential of the medieval castle and offer the potential to cater for a 30 per cent increase in visitor numbers.Cadw is seeking permission to refurbish the Great Hall of the castle, convert the existing visitor centre to a shop and erect a new Welcome Centre with a reception, café and cloakroom facilities as well as outside seating areas. There will also be associated site-wide access improvements.The new-build Welcome Centre will follow a low-carbon design and feature a ‘green roof’. An air-source heat pump will be included to provide low carbon heating and cooling, native wildflowers will be planted on the green roof to encourage biodiversity, and PV panels will be designed and installed to provide an element of renewable energy.No significant external alterations are proposed to the Great Hall as part of its refurbishment. A hard wearing, permeable ground covering with perimeter drainage would be installed in the adjoining Earl’s Apartment which would enhance the use of the Great Hall by enabling a temporary marquee and bar to be erected when required for special events.A proposed new ramp would also link the Great Hall to the Earl’s Apartment to facilitate their joint use during special events.Originally built in the late 13th century, the Great Hall is the largest of its kind in the UK.The forecasted rise in visitor numbers as a result of the proposed work is expected to create increased employment opportunities in the catering, cultural and hospitality sectors.The £5m plans have been recommended for approval ahead of a Caerphilly Council planning meeting later this week.Cadw is working with Caerphilly Council, Mace project management, Purcell Architects, Bright interpretation designers, Mann Williams Engineers, Holloway Partnership M&E, Wessex Archaeology, BSG Ecology, and Austin Smith Lord landscape architects on the project. John Weaver has been appointed as the contractor for the project.