Contractor Appointed to Deliver Major Restoration of Tamworth Castle

Specialist conservation contractor Messenger has been appointed to deliver a major £1.9 million conservation and restoration programme at Tamworth Castle.

Work includes major repairs to the south wing roofs and historic drainage systems, and the conservation of unsafe and deteriorating masonry.

The project, commissioned by Tamworth Borough Council, is supported by £1,716,238 from Arts Council England through its Museum Estate and Development Fund (MEND), alongside £190,695 of council investment.

Works will be delivered in carefully planned phases, ensuring the castle remains largely open to visitors throughout the project. Where possible, the programme will also provide opportunities for the public to observe conservation work in progress.

Ian Bird, Regional Director at Messenger, said: “It is a real privilege to be appointed to work on a building of such historic importance. This project represents not only an opportunity to conserve a landmark asset, but also to engage with the local community and support the development of future skills in the heritage construction sector.

“We are particularly keen to work alongside local colleges and students, helping to raise awareness of conservation as a specialist and rewarding area of the industry. We look forward to collaborating closely with the project team and castle staff to deliver long-lasting solutions to the challenges the building faces.”

Restoring Tamworth Castle

With a history spanning nearly 1,000 years, Tamworth Castle has evolved from a Norman motte-and-bailey fortress into a medieval stronghold, later a private residence, and now a public museum.

Following its inclusion on the Heritage at Risk Register in 2023, detailed investigations identified critical structural issues that now form the basis of this restoration programme.

Work on site is expected to begin in the coming weeks, with updates to be shared as the project progresses.

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