Castle could host market courtyard after makeover
SWANSEA'S ancient castle is being brought into the modern world.
The historic attraction could soon become an ever greater part of the city centre housing market stalls and hosting events in its courtyard.
And new lighting, showing off the 900-year-old landmark, is set to be introduced, if the plans are approved by Swansea Council's cabinet on Thursday.
As part of the scheme, information boards would also let visitors know all about the castle's history, which dates back to the 12th century.
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Landscaping work is also set to take place.
Nick Bradley, council cabinet member for regeneration, said: "Working in close partnership with the Welsh Government and Cadw (the Welsh historic monuments organisation) meant we were able to open up Swansea Castle for the first time in decades, but the next phase of works being proposed will further improve the landmark and attract even more visitors.
"The castle is one of our most treasured structures and it's important we conserve it for generations to come and provide a better visitor experience. We recognise the importance of the heritage tourism market and the potential castle improvements have to enhance the look and feel of the area as a whole. This could lead to even more investment in future."
The first phase of works last year means the castle upper floors and tower building, formerly used as a prison, are now accessible. People can also reach some of the attraction's vaulted rooms.
A number of openings have taken place over the past 12 months — all of which have been fully booked.
Swansea Castle was founded around 1106. It originally consisted of earthworks and timber defences. After various unsuccessful attacks by the Welsh, the castle fell in 1217 but was restored to the English in 1220.
William de Braose built the castle that survives today at the end of the 13th century as a set of private apartments. The building has served many purposes over the centuries including a barracks and a drill hall.
Before work starts, archeologists will be on site to investigate the area.
This second scheme of work is part-funded by the Welsh Government.
Comments
by StephenG11
Tuesday, October 02 2012, 8:17PM
“Sounds a good, practical idea, swanse gnores its hisory, just as it has ignored the seaside for so long. Bit much to call the Castle a "treasured structure" though - it ought to be but it hasn't been! It would be nice to see a bit moe of the City Wall too.”
by TaipeiSteve
Tuesday, October 02 2012, 7:03PM
“Personally, I like small, distinctive developments such as this and the Urban Village further up the road. Shopping malls definitely have their place, but it is these kinds of developments that give a city character and act as points of interest. I look forward to seeing the finished product.”
by peter17776
Tuesday, October 02 2012, 12:42PM
“wheres the old clock that was on the tower gone......???
Swansea attractions.....Mumbles train...instead of wasting our money on rubbish...like £80 million pound computer schemes that dont work......its staring the council right in the face and they just cant see it...and you know why..because of their cant do attitude..come on,,,wake up for gods sake..and we cant do it because of planning issues...well you are the ones who got the power...why not put it out to some sort of referendum to the whole of the people of Swansea for a yes / no...and if yes lets see how we can get around any issues.....”
by immigrant1
Tuesday, October 02 2012, 12:29PM
“"the castle is one of our most treasured structures".
LOL.
Is that really all Swansea has to offer - a dilapidated old building?”
by Philosoraptor
Tuesday, October 02 2012, 9:06AM
“Well done kasparov, your mother must be so proud of you.”
by kasparov44
Tuesday, October 02 2012, 8:47AM
“Is this supposed to be part of the plans to modernise Swansea? Re-open a 13th century castle?”