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Plans include conservation works to the Inner East Gatehouse , including a new roof and windows ; refurbishment of the Great Hall and the Earl ’ s Apartments ; improved access across the monument ; bridge improvements ; and new exhibitions telling the stories of Caerphilly Castle .
Around £ 1m will be spent on interactive exhibits featuring digital and audio-visual media , detailing the power struggles , betrayals , intrigues and liaisons of the people who built the castle , who fought over it , and lived in it through the ages .
In the Great Hall the largest of its date in the UK the space will be redecorated to reflect how it might have appeared in its medieval heyday . Using a combination of replica furniture , wall hangings and brightly painted wood panelling along with digital enhancements visitors will be transported back to the 1320s when the Great Hall hosted a mighty feast .
A new energy-efficient welcome centre will also be built , with air source heat pumps and a living green roof . It will provide a welcoming place to greet visitors , food and drink facilities , along with new toilets . A new educational space has been included in the design to allow a people of all ages to learn and enjoy more about the castle ’ s long history .
The existing shop will also be re-fitted , with improvements to the bridges and paths around the castle to ensure easy access for visiting . A peaceful wildlife garden is also included in the proposals , along with two bespoke play areas — a first for any Cadw property .
Gwilym Hughes , Head of Cadw , said : “ We would like to thank Cadw members , and visitors from near and far , for their ongoing support during the works . We look forward to offering exciting new facilities and interpretation for our visitors to enjoy once works are completed , and we ’ re delighted that this project will safeguard the site for future generations .”
Dawn Bowden MS , Deputy Minister for Arts & Sport said : “ Caerphilly is already renowned as the home of Wales ’ largest fortress , and following these conservation and development works , I have no doubt that this magnificent site will become a world-class heritage destination .
“ We look forward to seeing these developments come to life and to the impact it will bring to Caerphilly town centre — not only attracting more visitors to the area but also protecting the site for the future .”
To bring the enhancement works to life , Cadw is working in partnership with Caerphilly Council , Mace project management , Purcell Architects , Bright interpretation designers , Studio Hardie , Mann Williams Engineers , Holloway Partnership M & E , Wessex Archaeology , BSG Ecology , Austin Smith Lord landscape Architects , and John Weaver Contractors .
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