Archived decisions

ODIHAM CASTLE

1. The Executive Member has approved a programme of work to consolidate and improve access to Odiham Castle, also known as King John's Castle. She is pleased to report that a bid for funding to the Heritage Lottery Fund has been successful; and that this, together with an allocation from the County Council, will permit the site to be safely visited and enjoyed by the public.

2. King John's Castle is a medieval ruin comprising the remains of a stone keep and various grassed ramparts, owned by the County Council. It immediately adjoins the Basingstoke Canal and its towpath, which provide the means of access. The Castle is also a scheduled ancient monument and is therefore an important part of the County's heritage.

3. The works now agreed will help to arrest the physical decline of the Castle walls, which are made of stone and flint rubble and have become unstable and unsafe over time. The opportunity will also be taken to provide better and safer access to the grounds and the internal part of the Castle by providing ramped pedestrian paths. It will also be possible to provide interpretation boards and educational materials which will enhance visitors' appreciation of the historic remains.

4. The Castle is situated in a remote rural area with no vehicular access and therefore no car parking. An important part of the proposals is therefore to reinforce the direct footpath link to the monument from the Basingstoke Canal towpath; and also to improve the canal so that visitors on canal boats can alight at the Castle.

5. The consolidation works to the Castle, with related access and landscaping, will improve the appearance of Odiham Castle in the wider landscape, and will therefore enhance quality of place. The access improvements will also be in line with policies for sustainability. The proposals are a good example of partnership working, involving contributions from the Heritage Lottery Fund, Odiham Parish Council, the Odiham Society and close liaison with the Basingstoke Canal Authority.

Margaret Snaith

Executive Member for Recreation and Heritage