Plan for £35m restoration of stately home and grounds
PLANS are under way for a £35 million restoration of a Gothic-style stately home and its 321-acre grounds.
Elvaston Castle is to undergo major renovations of its historic buildings, with a new access drive to be installed, fresh camping facilities, while the upper floor of the house will be converted into suites to let out for weddings and other events, subject to permission being granted.
A new main café in the courtyard and smaller catering facilities around the site are also planned at the popular attraction, off the A6 near Derby.
Elvaston Castle & Garden Trust (ECGT) is working with Derbyshire County Council to prepare the planning application to restore the estate, with its many listed buildings and historic features.
Dr Peter Robinson, chairman of ECGT, said: “This is an incredibly exciting opportunity and the thoughts and ideas contributed by locals and the wider Derbyshire community have been invaluable in shaping this plan.
“Like many people, I love Elvaston and visit frequently with family and friends.
“We have five years of hard work in front of us, but we’re determined to bring the castle, gardens and wider parkland back to life.
“We are committed to opening up much more of the estate to the public, including the three courtyards of beautiful stable buildings which include a blacksmith’s forge, gas engine and the remains of an original Real Tennis Court.”
The site, which usually attracts 240,000 visitors a year, will remain a country park, free at the point of entry. The Hall of the Fair Star will be refurbished in keeping with the mid19th century Gothic Revival style that James Wyatt designed for the 4th Earl of Harrington.
A new entrance and access drive will be installed closer to the A6, reducing traffic nearby villages.