The Durlston Project
Background
Durlston Castle was built between 1887 and 1891 as the centrepiece of George Burt’s Durlston estate.
Dorset County Council and its partners now have the opportunity to develop the Castle as an integral part of the Park and establish a world class ‘Gateway Centre’ for visitors to Durlston and the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site.
Project History
In July 2008 the Project was awarded a Stage Two pass from the Heritage Lottery Fund with a £3.23m grant allotted. A main building contractor will be appointed in March 2010 and we expect building work to start in April.
Since 2008, development work has included drawing up detailed plans for the construction and operation of the building, with the invaluable help of Long and Kentish (Architects), and working with an excellent interpretation team to design new exhibitions and displays.
A new Management Plan covers all aspects of running the park, including transport, conservation, education and catering, and includes the proposal to bring Durlston Castle back into full public use.
The main goal is to ensure the site retains its integral beauty, tranquillity and wildlife importance while enhancing the currently run-down areas in and around the Victorian-era Castle.
Who Is Involved?
We have been pleased to be able to assemble a superb team of partners and consultants to supplement the Dorset County Council team:
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Award-winning architectural consultants Long and Kentish are heading the building design team.
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The interpretation team includes artist in residence Lulu Quinn and consultant Carol Parr, Exhibition Designers David McCabe Associates and AV Designers Centrescreen as well as the Rangers and other DCC and WHS staff.
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Supporting organisations include: Heritage Lottery Fund, Dorset Countryside, South-West Regional Development Agency, Friends of Durlston, Fine Family Foundation, Jurassic Coast Trust, Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site Team, Dorset County Council.
Document Archive
Architect's drawings:
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Durlston Castle (1900)
Durlston Castle restaurant (undated)
Modern aerial view of Durlston Castle |
