By Jamie Waller, Local Democracy Reporter
Historic changes have been approved for Newark Castle after a debate over how much ancient structures should be modernised.
A new ramp will be created to allow visitors to enter through the gatehouse on Beastmarket Hill as part of a larger restoration.
Members of Newark & Sherwood District Council’s planning committee clashed on Thursday (January 18) over whether monuments should be preserved in their current condition or improved to stimulate tourism.
The application, which was brought by the council, will include a wheelchair-accessible visitor reception, an events facility and improvements to the gardens.
Councillor Johno Lee (Con) said: “The modern elements go too far. They’re not in keeping with anything that’s there now.
“If anybody but us brought this forward, I don’t believe it would be approved. We need to protect the historic building.
“All this is being done to increase tourism and make the council money. But until we’ve resolved the infrastructure problems, we shouldn’t bring any more people into the town.
“I’m happy with the castle as it is – it’s been in that state for hundreds of years.”
The castle was first built in the 11th century before undergoing expansion and later playing an important part in the English Civil War in the 17th century.
Councillor Sue Saddington (Con) asked: “It’s a medieval castle, and a modern restaurant on the side would spoil the view.
“Would Warwick or York tamper with their historic buildings in the same way?”
However, the majority supported modern changes to bring more visitors to the castle.
Councillor Matthew Spoors (Lab) said: “All buildings change over time – unless we want to live in Disney-on-Trent, we need to adapt.
“Future generations won’t thank us for presiding over a pile of rubble.”
Councillor David Moore (Ind) said: “It’s an absolute must for the town. It brings people back and keeps people investing in the town.
“We have to trust the architects and specialists at Historic England who believe it’s the right thing for the castle.”
Councillor Penny Rainbow (Con) said: “We can’t shut the town off to tourism,” adding: “The contrast of old and new works.”
There was also concern about 16 trees which would be removed.
Councillor Emma Oldham (Lab) said: “I hate seeing trees come down, but there is no choice but to clear most of them to make a wheelchair accessible ramp.
“However, I’m shocked the two trees outside the gatehouse are still coming down just to make the castle more visible.”
The final vote was eleven in favour, three against and one abstention.
A National Lottery bid for £1.3m to support the castle’s improvements was made in October.
