About the project

The Hertford Castle Greenspace Renewal is a major transformation of the grounds of Hertford Castle, delivered by Hertford Town Council in partnership with East Herts District Council and Hertfordshire County Council's Countryside Management Service. In 2026 the project was awarded £3.5 million by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, an 83% grant towards the scheme, with Hertford Town Council contributing £495,949.

The project will conserve the castle's historic features, including the Norman motte, medieval curtain wall and icehouse, restore the riverbanks, redesign the children's play area and create step-free routes to make the grounds more accessible. It will also enhance wildlife habitats, add new interpretation and support a programme of community activities, with improvement works expected in 2028-2029.

The award followed an 18-month development phase of surveys, heritage assessments, ecological studies and extensive community consultation to shape the masterplan for the site.

The consultancy's role

Alix Slater Consultancy & Training acted as advisor and bid writer, supporting the partnership through the development of its successful application to The National Lottery Heritage Fund.