Rooted in History, Growing Together: The Soulton Castle Initiative
We’re thrilled to share some exciting news about Soulton!
As many of you know, Byrga Geniht Ltd. has been working alongside the Ashton family for some time, deepening understanding of the rich history of Soulton Hall and helping us to explain this exciting (and some times complex) situation.
We will are now sharing a report on these matters to aid explanation and development of this project, which is linked to below:
Link to Report: Soulton Castle – An Exciting New Project
Soulton Hall has been the setting of a number of digs with Dig Ventures. As many of you also know, Dig Ventures have just finished six seasons of archaeological digs which took in the mound of Soulton Castle, a medieval fortification.
This discovery ignited a new project: transforming Soulton Castle into a vibrant heritage amenity accessible to everyone.
Here’s how we envision its transformation:
Public Access for All: Currently, reaching the castle presents challenges. But we’re creating safe pathways from bus stops and car parks, making the castle more welcoming to all. Imagine a smooth, accessible path leading you to this historic treasure!
A Pocket Park for Exploration: Near the castle, ww hope to create a dedicated “Pocket Park.” This green space will be a haven for relaxation and learning. Picture yourself enjoying the sunshine on a bench, surrounded by information boards and a unique “medieval botanic garden” bursting with plants from the English/Welsh Middle Ages.
More Than Just History
This project goes beyond the castle monument.
We’re committed to:
Building Community Spirit: We want to create opportunities for local groups to get involved in activities like hedge-laying and planting the medieval garden. This will not only beautify the area but also foster a sense of shared ownership and responsibility for the castle’s heritage.
Promoting Inclusivity: Accessibility is a priority. The design will ensure everyone can enjoy this historical site, regardless of physical ability. And the sensory garden will offer a richer experience for people with different needs.
Protecting Our Environment: By encouraging public transport and reducing car use, we’ll contribute to a greener future. Additionally, planting new hedgerows will boost local wildlife and biodiversity.
Collaboration is Key
This project requires teamwork!
We’ll be collaborating with various stakeholders, including Historic England, local authorities, and heritage organizations. Funding will be sought from diverse sources like the Heritage Lottery Fund, local sponsors, and even charitable organizations.
We believe Soulton Castle has the potential to become a cherished community hub, attracting visitors and fostering a deeper appreciation for the region’s history.
Through years of exploration, DigVentures archaeologists have unraveled the secrets of the Soulton landscape, revealing remarkable finds.
Join Us on This Journey!
This is just the beginning. As the project progresses, we’ll be sharing updates on its development.
