A HISTORIC South Yorkshire landmark
dating back to the 18th century is undergoing an £860,000 restoration programme
to provide better access for visitors.
Grade II-listed Boston Castle in
Rotherham has stood since 1776 when it was built as a shooting lodge for the
Earl of Effingham, a keen supporter of the American Independence movement.
It is now halfway through a programme
funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, Rotherham Council and Biffaward, which is
due to be completed in March.
The Earl named the former shooting lodge
in honour of the Boston Tea Party, the catalyst revolt against a tax on tea
imposed by the British that led eventually to the formation of an independent
United States of America. The Earl banned the drinking of tea in protest.
The project is being carried out by
building restoration firm William Anelay, Paul Hewitt Architects and other
conservation consultants on behalf of Rotherham Council and the Friends of
Boston Castle.
Semi-derelict and unused for the past
decade, the castle is in Boston Park with views over the Rother and Don
valleys.
A two-storey extension will be built to
give access to the castle’s various levels and the 18th century
battlements and windows will receive extensive attention.
The restoration will also transform the
castle into an event space, illuminated at night-time, that will be commercially
available for hire for local groups and businesses.
Coun Amy Rushworth, Rotherham Council
cabinet member for lifelong learning and culture, and chairman of the Boston
Castle project board, said: “The castle is of historic importance to
Rotherham.
“It is a major landmark which
deserves to be restored to its former glory. It will be splendid to see its
regeneration as it will be hugely valuable in terms of educational
activities.”
