A HISTORIC UK castle is set to be transformed into a major visitor attraction.
The Grade II-listed building is undergoing significant work to revitalise the site.
Haverfordwest Castle, in Pembrokeshire, will soon become a “flagship” tourist destination as the medieval fortress undergoes a multi-million renovation.
The 2,000-year-old castle, which dates back to as early as 1120, has already received a full replacement of its two-level roof structure and the building’s core foundations have now been stabilised.
The £15million redevelopment will also include a new café, a shop with a range of hand-crafted and local products, free-to-access grounds, community spaces and an outdoor events area with 500-seat capacity.
Once reopened, the site will also be capable of hosting an open-air theatre, crafts fairs and Christmas markets.
The gaol building will also be transformed into a family-friendly visitor attraction detailing the story of Pembrokeshire’s past, and the existing museum exhibition will be modernised.
Other important works currently underway include strengthening and repairing the castle’s original walls, landscaping the area, making accessible footpaths and removing any non-protected debris.
The renovation is set to be completed by next summer, with the castle fully reopening in 2028.
Pembrokshire county councillor, Thomas Tudor, said: “Haverfordwest Castle is without doubt the jewel in the crown for the County Town of Pembrokeshire, and I am so pleased that the redevelopment of the castle is gaining momentum.
“It’s brilliant news that Morgan Sindall Construction has reached a key milestone in the £15m project to rejuvenate Haverfordwest Castle with the new roof now in place. The future is looking very positive for Haverfordwest, which can be enjoyed by tourists and residents alike.”
Haverfordwest Castle was established during Norman times – with the main structure largely built by 1290 – as an English military stronghold to assert control over Wales.
An estimated 40,000 annual visitors are projected to visit the site once works are completed.