Conservation Works Continue At Lancaster Castle

The Duchy of Lancaster has announced that Lancaster Castle will not reopen to the public in September but will remain closed until the end of October 2019.  This is due to health and safety concerns following the discovery of electrical cabling buried underneath the lower courtyard.

Commenting on the news, Duchy Head of Communications Debbie Garritty said: “The Duchy is committed to restoring this important heritage asset for generations to come. While we regret that the current phase of conservation work is taking longer than anticipated, we must make public safety our first priority. With this in mind we feel that we have no alternative but to remain closed until the end of October. This will enable us to ensure that all areas are publicly accessible, secure and safe.”

As a result, the Castle will not be able to operate as the ‘main stage’ venue for this year’s Lancaster Music Festival from 10th to 14th October 2019.  The Duchy has been working closely with event organisers and City Council teams to identify suitable alternatives for the headline acts previously scheduled to perform at the Castle. These will include Lancaster University’s student ‘nightclub’ The Sugarhouse and a brand new event venue for the city, converted warehouse Kanteena in Lancaster’s Canal Quarter.

“We believe that Lancaster Castle should serve as the main hub for community and cultural activities serving the city,” added Debbie, “and we look forward to hosting a full programme of events once this current phase of works is completed.”