Elvaston Castle has been largely inaccessible to the public for many years and the escalating costs of maintenance have prompted the need for urgent action and the development of a plan to safeguard the Castle’s future. Finding a viable solution has also become essential in order to bid for the Heritage Lottery funding necessary to restore the grandeur of the historic park and gardens. Without such a solution for the buildings, the Lottery will not support an application for a grant for the gardens restoration works.
Derbyshire County Council undertook a two-year tendering process which judged Highgate Sanctuary’s proposals as providing the best response to the sensitive conservation needs of the Estate, whilst also finding a sustainable solution for its future. The proposals were made in conjunction with four other Derbyshire based companies, ensuring a team with local perspective and direct experience of projects in the area.
The planned work will see the Castle and its immediate buildings carefully restored to their original splendour and extended to provide a hotel with conference and leisure facilities and a golf course. The proposed new uses will create employment and boost tourism in the area, as well as helping to secure funding for the restoration of the gardens and park. Each element of the design is being sensitively considered in order to minimise the effect on the historic architecture and landscape and to support improved public access to the Estate.
This website outlines the plans, along with an anticipated timetable. Details will be updated regularly. There is also a section which covers the questions that are most frequently asked and which lays to rest some of the misguided rumours that have continued to circulate about the proposals.
