Norman castle receives £1.3m for urgent repairs

A castle that boasts the largest Norman keep in Europe has received nearly £1.3m for urgent maintenance.

Work to upgrade Colchester Castle's drainage system and fix issues caused by water leakage is due to start in the coming months.

The investment is part of the government's £270m Arts Everywhere Fund, which aims to boost growth by improving heritage and cultural venues.

Last year the Grade I listed landmark had 83,000 visitors, including 20,000 schoolchildren, and is to remain open during the works.

The castle was built in the 1070s upon the historic foundations of the Temple of Claudius, which was decimated during Boudica's uprising against the Romans.

Colchester's Labour MP Pam Cox said: "The funding will not only address the urgent drainage issues but also ensure that the castle remains a cherished landmark for residents and visitors alike."

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said investment in the arts and cultural venues was vital.

"They are the building blocks of our world-leading creative industries and make a huge contribution towards boosting growth and breaking down barriers to opportunities for young people to learn the creative skills they need to succeed," she said.

The announcement includes a pot of money worth £120m, which will be available to 17 major institutions such as the British Museum, National Gallery and National Museums Liverpool.

But the package has been criticised for supporting "traditional and heritage culture" at the expense of contemporary facilities.

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