August 7, 2012 11.51 am This story is over 139 months old

Castle improvement plans to go on show

Castle improvements: Residents will be able to preview potential new changes to Lincoln Castle next week.

A presentation to showcase all the plans for improvements to Lincoln Castle has been announced.

On August 15, members of the public will be able to see what’s in store at a free event in The Lawn on Union Road.

Proposals include re-opening the Victorian men’s prison, changing the Castle’s wall walks and building a special vault to show off two of Lincoln’s prize treasures.

Currently, the city’s copy of the 1215 Magna Carta and 1217 Charter of the Forest are stored in the old prison. The revamp should mean that the documents have a new home in time for 2015 — the Magna Carta’s 800th anniversary.

Only one other Charter of the Forest exists. It is owned by Durham Cathedral, making Lincoln’s version extremely special.

Chairman of the Lincoln Historic Trust, Lord Cormack, will introduce the presentation. It is set to begin at 1.30pm and will feature three experts from the project.

Dr Jonathan Clark has been involved in the archaeological digs. He will share what he has found and announce plans for a visit by Channel 4’s Time Team.

Conservation architect Andrew Arrol will show of improvement designs and historical researcher Helen Bates will share her discoveries about life inside the former Victorian prison.

It is hoped that the castle’s make-over will benefit the rest of Lincoln.

Councillor Eddy Poll, Executive Member for Cultural Services, said: “Not only will this ensure that this local landmark is kept in good condition for future generations, it’ll also attract thousands more visitors, providing a sizeable boost for the local tourism economy.”

The presentation on Wednesday is free, but places should be booked by calling Jessica Marshall on 01522 550 646 or emailing.