Community's battle to save Knaresborough Castle is taken to the House of Commons

Launched by members of the community in Knaresborough led by Kathy Allday, Chair of Knaresborough Museum Association, the petition to save the historic site was presented by Harrogate and Knaresborough MP Tom Gordon.

The Liberal Democrat MP said he was in full agreement with the petition, which has already gathered more than 2,300 online signatures, and its key call for the development of a long-term plan, backed by dedicated funding, to protect the structure, preserve its heritage and secure the site for future generations.

Mr Gordon said he fully backed calls by the public, and Knaresborough Lib Dem councillors Matt Walker and Hannah Gostlow, for urgent action to protect and restore the historic site and called on the Government to step in, and for North Yorkshire Council and the Duchy of Lancaster to make the survival of this much-loved site an urgent priority.

"Knaresborough Castle is a fantastic local landmark,” said the MP.

"But years of unacceptable neglect have left it in urgent need of care, from worn stonework to overgrown areas and unsafe, deteriorating paths.

"By handing this petition into Parliament, I am standing with the community campaign led by Kathy Allday in calling for a proper restoration plan and guaranteed funding to secure the castle’s future.

"Now is the time for the Government to step up, and for North Yorkshire Council and the Duchy of Lancaster to make restoring this much-loved site an urgent priority.”

Overlooking the River Nidd, Knaresborough Castle was originally built by Norman barons around 1100 AD.

This former important royal residence was once used as a prison for King Richard II.

Knaresborough East division Coun Hannah Gostlow said: “This castle means so much to Knaresborough, not only as a cornerstone to our visitor economy and heritage, but as an important community asset in our daily life.

"It’s where we meet with friends, walk our dogs, and celebrate events.

"We want it to be cared for, just as we care for it.”

To sign the petition, visit: https://www.change.org/p/save-knaresborough-castle-8658532e-0a16-4e12-9a63-7df57ef06164