Rooms in a Welsh castle that have been closed to the public for over 50 years are set to be unveiled following the announcement of a significant funding boost. Margam Castle in Port Talbot has secured more than £900,000 in funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund. The restoration project, named Reimagining Margam Castle, will not only restore the historic building but also create new areas for public access. This grant is part of a larger £30 million fund distributed among 15 projects across the UK to commemorate 30 years since the charity’s establishment. The funding will cover essential capital works to preserve the castle, as well as the development of new public spaces within the premises.
One of the most exciting aspects of this project is the reopening of rooms that have been off-limits to visitors for half a century. The restoration programme will include significant repairs and conservation efforts on the castle’s structure, along with the addition of a new cafe. Furthermore, the project will incorporate activities, exhibitions, interpretation, and a volunteer programme in collaboration with Neath Port Talbot Council’s education partners.
Councillor Cen Phillips, the cabinet member for nature, tourism, and wellbeing at Neath Port Talbot Council, expressed excitement about the funding, stating that it will not only preserve a Welsh landmark but also create new opportunities for the local community to engage with their heritage. He highlighted the project’s potential to boost tourism, create jobs, and safeguard the region’s rich history for generations to come.
Eilish McGuinness, the chief executive of the National Lottery Heritage Fund, commended the diversity of heritage projects supported by the fund. She emphasised the importance of preserving heritage for future generations and acknowledged the contribution of National Lottery players in transforming the UK’s heritage landscape over the past three decades.
The restoration of Margam Castle is expected to elevate its status as a significant tourist destination in South Wales, attracting visitors from the local area and beyond. The project marks a new chapter for Neath Port Talbot, promising economic benefits and a renewed sense of pride in the region’s heritage. With the support of the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the castle’s revival is set to enrich the cultural tapestry of Wales and inspire appreciation for its historical treasures.