The Durlston Project - Future Plans
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In December 2006 the Project was awarded a 'Stage One' pass from the Heritage Lottery Fund with a £3.27m grant earmarked.
From March 2007 to February 2008, a more detailed 'Stage Two' bid was developed, and handed to the HLF offices in early March.
In July 2008, HLF approved the final application.
In April 2010 Greendale Construction Limited took over the Castle area and begun the massive rebuild.
What Next?
Over the next year the Castle will be rebuilt (after some demolition), new cable trenches will be laid to join the current Visitor Centre with the Castle, and the finishing touches will be made to the interpretation, artworks and access improvements - all with the aim of opening in July 2011.
2. Raising of the funding is still ongoing, however, we are now close to our target.
Friends of Durlston are working closely with Dorset County Council to support the Jurassic Coast Trust in its funding appeal for the Durlston Project.
Durlston: The Appeal
Although there is over £5m raised for the Durlston Project, we still need to raise more in matched - funding to ensure a successful future for Durlston Castle as an integral part of Durlston Country Park.
The Castle will be transformed into an inspirational, world class facility for visitors to Durlston and the Jurassic Coast.
Conservation of Durlston’s internationally important wildlife, landscapes and geology will also benefit, ensuring future generations can still ‘look round and read great nature’s open book’. With your help this vision can become a reality.
Project Aims
The main aims of The Durlston Project include:
- Restoring Durlston Castle as an integral part of the Park and ensuring a viable future for this important part of our Victorian heritage.
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Enhancing the management and conservation of the area’s internationally important natural heritage including careful zoning policies and the creation of a National Nature Reserve.
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Improving access and providing greater opportunities particularly for disabled visitors, young people and under-represented groups.
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Enhancing enjoyment, awareness and understanding of the natural world through the provision of high quality interpretation and information
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Providing new opportunities for learning and family activities based in an exciting, newly refurbished visitor facility.
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Developing an innovative programme of exhibitions and events in a new gallery space which will connect visitors with the site through art.
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Expanding opportunities for volunteer involvement through Friends of Durlston and other volunteering and training opportunities.
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Providing greatly enhanced all weather facilities and other attractions to encourage a wider range of visitors to enjoy a day out at Durlston.
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Providing the facilities for an expanded range of community uses supporting local events and activities.
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Improving the management and conservation of the wider ‘Burt landscape’.
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Providing a significant tourism asset for Swanage, of particular value outside the main visitor season.
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Promoting exercise, healthy living and well being through countryside activity, recreation and enjoyment.
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Improving people's understanding of their impact on the world around them and encourage more sustainable lifestyles.
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Working with local schools and universities to encourage project involvement and longer-term associations.
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Ensuring that Durlston continues to offer a safe, welcoming and tranquil environment for people to enjoy.
Get Involved
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Become an individual or corporate sponsor.
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Tell your friends and family about the project.
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Durlston Castle (1910)
Durlston Castle (2003)
Visitors to The Great Globe (1906)
Visitors to The Great Globe (2008) |
