Lancaster Prison

[Xenophon PCDGS]

Has anyone any updated news of what is to become of Lancaster Castle after the closure of the prison.

 

[mbonwick]

Rumours I've heard suggest that it technically can't close!

12months notice has to be given to the landlord, in this case the Duke of Lancaster (ie. the Queen), and so far none has been given....

 

[newbie babs]

I went up there about 3 weeks ago and went on the tour.
It was closed because of heath and safety reasons. It would cost too much money to bring it up to standards and was the oldest prison in Europe until it closed earlier this year.

There are plans being discussed what to do with it. Its very dark inside when the doors are shut to your cell as there is no light at all.

There are pictures of past prisoners in photos making items in prison and one ex prisoner came in and saw himself and actually without anyone seeing him stole his picture and walked out.

The court is still used (crown) and will be staying open.

 

[Xenophon PCDGS]

It should be one of the special cases for Lottery Heritage funding to aid the required restoration requirements. It does has the rather gruesome historical connection to the Pendle Witches and their execution, in addition to all its own historical connections. The tours of the allowed-access areas are well worth the visit. It is situated on the top of the knoll that gives it such a commanding position in the area. Next to it is Lancaster Priory, a grade 1 listed building, with a long history, which makes the total area a well-respected tourist attraction.

 

[snail]

I had read somewhere that the prison was on a 3 year notice period.

EDIT: Here. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-lancashire-12758767

Lancaster Castle prison is closing at the end of the month but its future use may take three years to be determined.

The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) gave official notification of closure this week to the Duchy of Lancaster which owns and protect it for the sovereign.

The Grade I listed building is being leased by the MoJ for the next three years.

During that time the Duchy of Lancaster will look at the "long term and sustainable uses" for the building.

 

[Butts]

Perhaps they could turn it into a Hotel like they did with the one in Oxford.

 

[Gathursty]

Do you mean the Malmaison hotel in Oxford that doubled up as a shooting location for the tv series Porridge?

Back to Lancaster Castle, it would be an awesome place to celebrate graduating from (when it is renovated into a suitable venue of course)!

 

[newbie babs]

Butts

They do have plans for a hotel amongest others.

 

[Xenophon PCDGS]

Thank you for the feedback which has brought me "up to speed" on the matter, concerning the Duchy of Lancaster.