Councillors to debate petition on conservation needs for Knaresborough Castle
Over 500 signatures call for action to restore historic landmark
A petition demanding urgent conservation efforts for Knaresborough Castle has gained over 500 signatures and is set to be debated by North Yorkshire Council's Harrogate and Knaresborough Area Committee later. Concerns about the historic site's deterioration have prompted locals to urge prioritisation of maintenance and restoration activities.
Campaigners emphasise the declining state of the castle, highlighting issues such as vegetation growth through masonry, obscured views across the gorge, and needed repairs to pathways and steps. The petition warns that continued neglect could adversely affect tourism and potentially lead to the site's closure.
The petition calls for funds generated from the castle estate, including car parking income, to be dedicated to its maintenance and restoration. Council officers have responded by outlining ongoing work, including a vegetation removal programme scheduled between June and August, managed by specialist contractors in consultation with Historic England and wildlife experts.
Additional planned efforts involve restoring deteriorating handrails and developing a comprehensive condition assessment and conservation maintenance plan through conservation architects.
North Yorkshire Council, currently leasing the castle estate from the Duchy of Lancaster until 2032, faces challenges with expenditure on the estate historically exceeding revenue from parking charges and sub-tenancies.
Councillors will deliberate on how to address the petition, considering options like further investigation or making recommendations to council decision-makers.