Consultants being brought in to help transform historic Bailey Hill in Mold

Consultants are being sought to help transform the ‘birthplace of Mold’ into a major tourist attraction.

In September 2018, Flintshire Council chose to enter into a grant agreement with The Heritage Lottery Fund to unlock just under £1m to redevelop the historic Bailey Hill.

The authority is now looking for a lead consultant to implement the project at the site of Norman motte and bailey castle, which is believed to date to around 1100 and could host events in the future.

The work will see its entrance redesigned, along with access improvements, a new play area and interpretation site to explain its significance.
Meanwhile a custodians cottage will be rejuvenated and turned into a multi-purpose community space.

In a tender notice, the council said the consultant would be responsible for assembling a team to take on the project.

They said: “It is envisaged that the consultancy team will be led by a landscape architect.

“The team will comprise, but not be exclusive to an architect, structural engineer, civil engineer, mechanical and electrical engineer, quantity surveyor, ecologist and arboriculturalist.

“Bailey Hill has long been cherished by the people of Mold as an important historical and recreational site in the heart of the town.

“The entirety of the site is owned by Flintshire County Council, and lies within a conservation area and is also designated as a scheduled ancient monument.

“Mold Town Council currently have a 25 year lease on the custodians cottage, which they rent out commercially to a private individual.”

The site was secured as a park for the people of Mold by public subscription in 1870, and has remained as a public space since this time.

Flintshire Council’s cabinet previously gave the go ahead for a legal agreement to develop and manage the area.

The total cost of the project, including partnership and match funding, is expected to be just over £1.3 million.

By Liam Randall – Local Democracy Reporter (more here).