A major conservation project for one of Chester’s historic and important buildings begins in February in a project totalling £679,000.
The entrance way to the Castle complex, or the Propylaeum as it is formally named, is receiving a grant of £404,000 from Historic England, £200,000 from Cheshire West and Chester Council and £75,000 from WREN.
The two hundred year old sandstone structure is a massive gateway in the Greek Doric order, flanked by two smaller pedimented lodges and was designed by Chester – based architect Thomas Harrison. Work began on the grade 1 listed structure in 1811 and was finished in 1815.

Last year scaffolding was erected to prevent falling masonry and the cause of subsidence to one pavilion was investigated. Scheduled Monument Consent was needed to carry out excavations to both sides of the Propylaeum. The work was undertaken by structural engineers and archaeologists and included a 3D laser survey of the buildings. 

Councillor Louise Gittins, Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Wellbeing said: “This very important and magnificent gateway was originally modelled on the Acropolis in Greece. 

“Work begins around early February next year and will be completed in the summer. This major conservation project will make sure that the structure is saved so that it can be enjoyed by generations to come.

“I would like to thank Historic England and WREN for their grants in making it possible to save this gateway which is considered to be one of the best examples of Greek revival architecture in the country.”

Risk Principal said: “We are delighted that our ‘Heritage at Risk’ campaign is resulting in action to safeguard this monumental grade I listed building, designed as the gateway to Chester Castle. 

“We’re pleased to be supporting Cheshire West and Chester Council in undertaking the essential repairs that will result in its removal from our register of historic sites under threat.”  

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