Proposals to undertake more detailed work on the long-term future of Hartlebury Castle has been agreed by Worcestershire County Council's Cabinet.

The County Council's Museum is a tenant on the castle site, which is owned by the Church Commissioners. The castle has been home to the Bishop of Worcester for more than 1,000 years. However, the commissioners plan to sell the site and 40 acres of surrounding land after locating the new Bishop in Worcester.

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Cabinet Members were asked in a report by officers to support further work being undertaken to ascertain whether there is a viable business case for a partnership via a Trust type arrangement to take over the running of the site.

Councillor Philip Gretton, Worcestershire County Council's Cabinet Member for Adult and Community Services, said: "This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, but before making any decision we need to fully ensure that there is a proper business case in place that fully stacks up.

"I am pleased my Cabinet colleagues have given their support to us going away and progressing the work in more detail. Steps will be taken that will enable us to identify a viable option that involves partners, meet our objectives and bring significant benefit to Worcestershire residents."

(CD/JM)