The remains of Wallingford Castle have been saved from removal from Historic England’s ‘At Risk’ Register, much to the delight of Wallingford Town Council.

The Medieval remains at Wallingford Castle have been repaired with the help of a £283,200 grant from Historic England.

Securing this grant has been described by mayor for Wallingford Daniel Beauchamp as “symbolic of a change in approach” to the town council’s operations in completing the first of several projects.

Mr Beauchamp said: “This result is due to a lot of hard work by the town council, predominantly led by councillor Keats-Rohan. Her gumption, expertise and can-do attitude allowed us to secure this funding and complete the work needed.

“From my point of view, this is indicative of what we’re trying to do as a council. For a small town council we have responsibility for a number of projects and this is one we are now able to successfully tick off.

“This is one strong element in the mix of rich history our town has to offer.”

The standing ruins of the College of St Nicholas are the largest surviving walls from a once grand royal castle, first built under William the Conqueror between 1067 and 1071. The Castle Gardens encompassing the ancient earthworks and ruins are now managed by Wallingford Town Council.

The remains of Wallingford Castle is one of 25 sites across the South East that has been saved, with its future secured, Historic England announced last Thursday (November 9).

Other sites saved in the region include Sheerness Dockyard Church, the ruins of Hursley Castle in Hampshire and the final resting place of Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli in Hughenden, Buckinghamshire.

Many buildings and sites have been rescued with the help and commitment of local people, communities, charities, owners and funders including The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

From 2022 to 2023, Historic England has awarded just over £1 million in grants for repairs to 19 historic places and sites in the South East on the Heritage’s at Risk Register

Councillor Katharine Keats-Rohan of Wallingford Town Council said: “The castle remains bear priceless witness to the important role Wallingford has played in English history and should be a source of pride to us all. I am enormously grateful to Historic England for helping us to save them for the future.

“The town council will continue to work on the restoration of our remaining areas of heritage at risk. Our plans include bringing engaging and interactive interpretation to all our sites, to ensure residents and visitors understand and value their national significance and help safeguard them for the future.”