Restoration of Castle Gardens is due to begin in January, signalling a major move to reclaim the green space in central Norwich.

Planned upgrades include simplified, inclusive seating for the Whiffler Theatre, fresh planting and wider paths, plus relocating the Princess Diana memorial stone to a more prominent spot beside a new commemorative tree.

After consultation with local theatre groups, the Whiffler Stage will be lowered to ground level to improve accessibility for all users. The thatched kiosk will stay. All planting, aside from trees and significant shrubs, will be cleared to allow a fresh start that supports biodiversity.

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Works are scheduled outside the bird nesting season to protect wildlife. Public access to the lift and steps to the castle will remain throughout. The lower end of the gardens will close during the project, with reopening planned for summer 2026 featuring widened paths, more seating and better accessibility.

Backed by the Greater Norwich Growth Board through the Infrastructure Investment Fund, the scheme has been shaped with input from stakeholders, theatre groups, community safety teams and Inclusive Norwich to ensure accessibility and community needs are met.

The changes will improve links to Norwich Castle, the green and surrounding streets, restoring the area as an attractive, usable greenspace in the city centre.

Funding was awarded in 2015, but work could not be formally initiated until major work to the Castle Keep was completed.

Councillor Mike Stonard, Chair of the Greater Norwich Growth Board and Leader of Norwich City Council said: "Castle Gardens is a jewel in our city's heritage. This restoration will make it more welcoming, accessible, and enjoyable for everyone."