Derbyshire council seeks buyers for Elvaston Castle after a £35M renovation plan failed, sparking criticism.
The council canceled a £35 million renovation plan after costs increased to £50 million. The plan was deemed too expensive, and they preferred a smaller plan, saying they might sell it later.
Now, the council seeks a buyer and are not waiting for offers. The Elvaston Castle Trust is saddened by this decision. This charity helps manage the park, and they feel the council’s decision was sudden.
The Trust won’t bid to buy the estate, allowing them to talk to interested buyers. They can then protect the environment, restore the site, support education, and protect staff jobs, as the Trust wants long-term sustainability.
The council said they are exploring options, wanting organizations to take on the estate. The Trust seemed supportive of this idea, as the castle needs major repairs for its future. The council says it cannot provide these funds.
No final decisions exist yet, and they will protect the heritage site. They will publish a legal notice so people can share their views. Running the estate currently costs £400,000 each year.
A Friends of Elvaston group spoke out, saying the council wasted money on a road and that canceling the castle plan is a major betrayal. They noted the council spent over £1 million on the failed masterplan.
The original plan included a new road and parking to the site, with historic buildings becoming shops, specifically a tearoom and flower shop. A cafe and playground formed part of this phase, with the project aiming to create many new jobs.
The new plan upgrades horse facilities and modernizes the courtyard. They want better marketing as it should offer faster return on investment. The park costs too much to run and does not generate enough money now.
Cllr Tony King mentioned the costs, saying a new approach could help the estate. The council seeks options for its long-term future and wants the estate to remain viable.