Boston Castle restoration gets £50,000 boost

A £50,000 donation is the final piece in the jigsaw that will allow the long-awaited restoration of Rotherham landmark Boston Castle to go ahead.

The Friends of Boston Castle and Parklands were awarded the cash grant from Biffaward to convert the 18th century building’s courtyard into an amphitheatre which can host outdoor performances and teaching opportunities for schools.

Work is expected to start on the long-awaited £1.2 million castle revamp later this summer after planners finally gave the go-ahead yesterday.

The currently derelict Grade II-listed building was built as a hunting lodge by the Earl of Effingham in 1775.

This week’s green light means its future as a museum and education centre is secured after a decade of uncertainty and vandalism.

The building will be restored with 18th century designs and a two-storey extension will be constructed.

There will also be a platform lift and stairs, plus toilets, paths and onsite parking. Work on the courtyard will happen at the same time.

Heritage Lottery Fund contributed £590,000 with Rotherham Borough Council investing the rest.

The Biffaward scheme has granted more than £100 million since it was set up by Biffa Waste Services in 1997.

The Friends are currently recruiting volunteers to act as tour guides when the castle opens to the public next year.

Anyone interested in learning the story of Boston Castle and who would like more details on the training involved should contact Janet on 01709 361861.