A RESTORATION project, which will allow visitors to Highcliffe Castle full access to a restored wing for the first time, is to get under way this month.

The 18-month building project starts on July 31 at the Penleaze wing of the castle.

Works will be undertaken by Greendale who were successful in the council’s tendering process.

As well as works to the Penleaze wing, the castle’s historic kitchen is being restored and new exhibition and activity spaces created. A new conservation studio will be created, allowing an internationally-important collection of stained glass to be restored and displayed.

The castle will also welcome back some original pieces of furniture, which are currently held in storage by the V&A museum. New staircases and floors are being added and two lifts are also being installed, meaning the whole castle will be accessible to all.

Cllr Sally Derham-Wilkes, chairman of the community committee at Christchurch Borough Council, said: “Highcliffe Castle really is a spectacular building and it’s fantastic we are able to carry out these works to restore it to its former glory.

“We must thank the public in advance for their understanding and patience while the building works take place, and we aim to keep disruption to a minimum. I’m sure people will enjoy keeping up to date with how the project is progressing and, once complete, it will look fabulous.”

While the works take place, the library and ante-library will be closed to the public and the whole castle will be closed from November 1, 2017, to mid-March 2018.

A reduced admission rate is being charged to Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) visitors until building work is complete. The work is being funded following a substantial grant from the HLF, as well as additional funding from the Country Houses Foundation, The Pilgrim Trust and Wolfson.

Rob Hooker, Greendale Construction director, said: “We are extremely pleased and excited to have been awarded the Phase 7 works contract at Highcliffe Castle and to return to undertake the next phase of these interesting works.

"It is an amazing Grade I listed building of historic importance and to be part of its refurbishment for future generations is a real honour and challenge. We look forward to collaboratively working with the design team, clients, Heritage Lottery Fund and the other funders to deliver this amazing project in February 2019.”

The Castle Kitchen will remain open throughout the build and regular updates on how the work is progressing will be published.