11:30am Wednesday 27th May 2009
VISITORS, thirsting for an authentic Civil War experience, will benefit from extensive plans to restore Basing House.
The historic site in Old Basing is to be brought to life under proposals to conserve and adapt buildings still scarred from the war.
Funding has been approved to adapt the existing farm buildings to provide new visitor facilities, transform the stable block into a new learning centre and improve access for disabled visitors.
The educational centre will be built in converted farm buildings next to the Great Barn, a Tudor building with roof timbers dating back to 1535.
Councillor Ken Thornber, leader of Hampshire County Council, approved the funds for the improvements at last month’s decision day which, subject to planning approvals and acceptable tenders, should be completed by May 2010.
He said: “Basing House is one of the few places in the country where you can see the impact the Civil War had on Britain.
“During that time, Basing House suffered a prolonged siege and was eventually set on fire, destroying the building and leaving the amazing ruins which we can see today.
“The planned improvements will greatly enhance the quality of the attraction, bringing its rich history to life and providing an excellent new educational resource for the people of Hampshire so that they can get a real hands-on experience of the Civil War and ensure that future generations can also step back in time.”
Basing House began as a Norman castle, becoming in Tudor times the country’s largest private house and the palace of the powerful courtier William Paulet, Lord Treasurer of England. It was the scene of many visits by nobles and royals including Henry VIII, Elizabeth I and Philip of Spain.
The Heritage Lottery Fund, Hampshire County Council, Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council and the South East Museums Hub is providing the funding.
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