Boston Castle, Rotherham:

Semi-derelict and out of use for the past decade, this Grade II listed building situated in the centre of 23 acre Boston Park dates back to 1775 and was built by the Earl of Effingham originally as a hunting lodge.  Funding has now been secured from the Heritage Lottery Fund with additional monies from Rotherham MBC to restore the castle and bring it back into use.  A further grant from Biffaward has been obtained by the Friends of Boston Castle and Parklands for works to the Courtyard area.  William Anelay is delighted to be carrying out the restoration and refurbishment project.

Initially some outbuildings are being demolished and an unsympathetic Victorian extension partially demolished. Stone salvaged from the demolitions will be integrated into a new two storey extension that will house a passenger platform lift, staircases and toilet facilities.  The extension will be structurally reinforced where necessary and the new build element will be constructed of traditional materials completed by a timber and slate roof.

The original castle building will be made weather tight and secure by making good damaged and missing masonry, raking out and re-pointing of the stone fabric and the removal of the remaining roof covering and replacing it with a modern stainless steel one.  A timber decked viewing platform with be introduced at roof level.  Externally, the drainage system will be overhauled, new soft landscaping will be formed and an amphitheatre will be introduced.

Internally, the original building and the new extension will benefit from new mechanical and electrical services throughout, new timber flooring, new plaster work and full decorations.  Once the scheme is complete, the property will provide facilities for visitors, schools and the local community to learn about the castle, its environs as well as being available for functions and external events. The construction phase of the project is due to be completed Spring 2012.