The restoration of Hay Castle has taken another step forward as funding from the Welsh Government through Visit Wales’ Tourism Investment Support Scheme has been announced.
This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government
Funding of £120,000 has been awarded for work improvements to the medieval keep and gatehouse, the mansion house, Victorian coach house and outbuildings. The Hay Castle Trust has already secured £4.9million from the Heritage Lottery Fund for the restoration process. Work on the projects is due to commence in the spring and the Hay Castle Trust are looking for contractors to undertake the work.
It is anticipated that activities taking place at Hay Castle will generate 60,000 visitors per year once the site is up and running – delivering a major economic boost to the area.
Cabinet Secretary for the Economy and Infrastructure, Ken Skates, said:
“I’m delighted that we’ve been able to support the redevelopment of Hay Castle which will see this piece of the area’s history restored and reinvented. 2017 is the Year of Legends in Wales – when we’ll bring our past to life like never before and create new Welsh legends. What an apt time for work to begin on this restoration - which will see the castle open its doors for the first time in 800 years and bring its story to life.”
Managing Director of Hay Castle, Nancy Lavin Albert said:
“The funding through Visit Wales will help us create a major heritage destination in the landscape and give people another great reason to visit Wales.”
Following restoration Hay Castle will prove to be an excellent facility for the area which will include a gallery for touring exhibitions; a platform at the top of the medieval keep allowing visitors views of the Wye Valley; an education space for teaching workshops; an dramatic entrance hall in the now derelict eastern wing; and a cafe in the former coach house and kitchen.
Further information is available on http://haycastletrust.org/ (external link).