PLANS have been lodged to refurbish a Grade-II listed castle.

Forestry England has submitted a planning application to Northumberland County Council which would allow work to begin in spring on improving Kielder Castle.

The work would see the demolition and rebuilding of the existing east-wing courtyard extension, as well as the refurbishment of the onsite cafe.

Plans also include the creation of an improved art gallery space, cycle hub, holiday and staff accommodation, a lift and a new entrance.

It follows a pre-application in August 2019 which was granted permission in March 2020.

READ MORE: Revamp to safeguard the future of Kielder Castle

A design and access, and heritage statement prepared by Mailen Design explains: "The key intention of the proposal is to increase visitor numbers using the castle. To achieve this, the commercial offer is being significantly improved. In-line with the improved offer are necessary improvements to the general access of the building.

"The proposed works would result in an improvement to the current facilities and the high-quality design would enhance the significance of the heritage asset, while safeguarding its future."

The castle is thought to have been completed in 1755 and was rebuilt in 1867. In 1932, the estate was sold to the Forestry Commission who later developed a visitor centre for the "increasing numbers of walkers, cyclists, birdwatchers, sailors and art lovers who made the long journey up to the headwater of the North Tyne."

The statement continues: "Kielder Castle is a valuable asset which must be brought back into public prominence.

"Renovation works are required to safeguard the future of the listed asset by providing a viable use for building, this will ensure that the building does not fall into unsalvageable dilapidation.

"The building does not appear in immediate structural peril, however, the decades of under-use and general neglect are clearly evident. The building will require prompt attention to ensure the continued structural stability.

"The building was designed to be seen and used as a base for recreation; the new use that has been found for the castle - as a visitor centre and art gallery - is in the spirit of the castle’s original use."