A petition has been presented in Parliament calling for urgent action to restore and protect Knaresborough Castle.

Tom Gordon, MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough, will present the petition as concerns grows for the future of the historic site overlooking the River Nidd, which was once used as a royal residence and as a prison for the King Richard II.

The Liberal Democrat MP is supporting local residents who have been calling for action to protect the much-loved landmark from years of neglect, including Kathy Allday of the Knaresborough Museum Association and Heritage Centre, and Liberal Democrat councillors Matt Walker and Hannah Gostlow.

Many of Mr Gordon’s constituents have also raised concerns with him about visibly worn the site has looked in recent years.

Tom Gordon, MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough, will present a petition about the neglect being suffered by Knaresborough Castle. (Picture contributed)

placeholder image — Tom Gordon, MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough, will present a petition about the neglect being suffered by Knaresborough Castle. (Picture contributed)

"It’s deeply disappointing to see such an important landmark left to deteriorate through years of neglect by North Yorkshire Council,” said the Harrogate and Knaresborough MP.

"I’m standing with local residents in calling for a proper restoration plan and guaranteed funding to protect the castle and its heritage for generations to come.

"Knaresborough Castle is a fantastic local asset, providing space for residents and visitors alike to discover local history, participate in community events and enjoy fantastic views of Knaresborough riverside."

Beautifully set on top of a high cliff overlooking the River Nidd, the roots of the famous fortress can be traced back to at least 1100.

The petition reflects a campaign led by Kathy Allday which urges North Yorkshire Council, which is responsible for the castle, to work with the Duchy of Lancaster to make its restoration a priority.

It also calls for a long-term plan with dedicated funding to protect the structure, preserve the site’s heritage, and secure its future for generations to come.

Kathy Allday said: “Knaresborough Castle is in our town’s DNA.

"The grounds used to be well cared for but now the mound and moat areas are covered in brambles and sycamores and weeds cover the castle walls and keep.

“It’s a disgrace that the issue of regular maintenance has been disregarded for so long."

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