Work has begun to upgrade the courtroom of Castle Rushen in Castletown.

The refurbishment, which was initially delayed by the lock-downs at the start of 2021 is now almost complete.

Manx National Heritage (MNH) has overseen the work to upgrade the courtroom and bring it back into regular use as part of the public space in the Castle.

Originally built in the 1180s, Castle Rushen was designed for defensive purposes and to be the home of the Lord of Mann.

It was converted into a prison in the early 19th century, before the prison relocated in the 1890s.

The courtroom as it exists now is a relatively modern space and has had numerous alterations including extensive repairs and modernisation in the 1970s.

The Isle of Man Courts of Justice used the courtroom as late as 2013, until the facility was deemed unsuitable by modern court standards and proceedings were moved to Douglas.

The courtroom was also used for the investiture of the island’s Lieutenant Governor until 2011, after which the ceremony was moved to Douglas.

The courtroom occupies the upper floor of Castle Rushen’s outer gatehouse, which was constructed during the later part of the fourteenth century.

The works currently being undertaken by MNH involve the removal of a suspended ceiling which was installed in the 1970s as a replacement for the coved ceiling which by then was damaged by a leaking roof. They are attempting to closely recreate the height of the old courtroom.

Steve Blackford, head of properties for MNH, said of the refurbishment: ’The intention is to restore something of the proportions of the courtroom as it was for over 130 years, and to complete the works in good time so that the room is available for the investiture of the next Lieutenant-Governor.

’Our aim is for this space to be available to the public as part of our development of the visitor experience at Castle Rushen, eventually bringing Derby House into play and allowing us to expand the interpretation of the castle into new areas.

’These works are part of our long term commitment to improve access to the island’s cultural heritage.’

In addition to the ceiling upgrades, modern fixed pew seating and the raised dais have been removed and preparations have been made for the later insertion of a platform lift to make the room fully accessible..

Repairs will also be undertaken to the walls, skirting boards and windows, and new heating and lighting will be installed.

The works are currently being undertaken by local contractor Caine Bros in conjunction with Horncastle Thomas architects.

On completion, the room will come into public use and will become available for weddings and private events.

More information on the courtroom’s refurbishment is available at: www.manxnationalheritage.im