CASTLE GARDENS RESTORATION SCHEME
Preliminary work to secure the major restoration of one of the City’s most historical landmarks has now begun. As a result of a successful application to the Heritage Lottery Fund, Lisburn City Council received a Stage I Approval to undertake initial development works in advance of the full restoration of the gardens. Match-funded by the Council, this major initiative is worth in excess of £3 million and is one of the largest urban parks projects in the UK to be funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund.

This first phase of the work will be investigative and will include archaeological investigations, site clearance work, tree surgery and an engineering survey. The main restoration work will include restoration of the Castle Street frontage, War Memorial and 17th Century Gardens terraces as well as the listed garden monuments and re-planting of the upper gardens. New facilities will include a children’s play area, toilets and a Park Ranger’s office. There will also be improved lighting and security and the resurfacing of footpaths. It is expected that this work will commence on site next Spring with the aim of having the restored Castle Gardens fully open by the summer of 2005.

Crucial to the success of the overall scheme will be the employment of an Education Officer who will have responsibility for the implementation of a Public Information and Education Programme to raise awareness, establish links with local schools and community groups and promote the heritage and history of the Gardens. Located in the heart of Lisburn Historic Quarter, the restoration of the Gardens will provide a key public facility, rich in Lisburn’s culture and heritage, to be enjoyed by both local residents and visitors alike.