Proposals are being put forward to help Whittington Castle expand its facilities in order to combat Covid-19 restrictions on the site.

Plans have been drawn up and put forward to Shropshire Council for the building of a detached toilet block at the 12th century castle in Whittington, with improved pedestrian access for the tea room and expansion of the preparation room.

The plans, on behalf of the castle, set out how Covid restrictions have shaped the way staff want the tea room and toilets to operate.

The design and access statement said: “Covid-19 has meant the introduction of restrictions that are not easily applied to an ‘Ancient Monument’, but after some thought, the following proposals are suggested.

“The Tea Room has been a leading source of income but at the moment, is operating on a takeaway basis, with both the Tea Room and associated toilet facilities being disbarred to visitors.

“Obviously, bad weather will impact on this and it is a priority to get visitors into a covered environment.

“In the near future, safety screening will be erected to safeguard visitors and staff; nevertheless, there is only one door providing access and egress, which the formation of a doorway in the gable would address, thereby allowing one way in and one way out.

“A new opening could be formed in the gable end window and a pair of doors (measuring) 1200 x 1981mm with matching oak frames and with double glazing could be installed.

“Externally, a set of steps and landing would be required to overcome the level difference between inside and outside at that point, again, the oak elements such as handrails and newel posts used would match the rustic finish on the exterior.

“It will provide a permanent secondary means of escape and allow the operation of a one-way system. Disabled visitors would require a managed access/exit.”

The statement adds that a new toilet block could be eventually opened out to all castle visitors while the removal of toilets from within the tea room would allow for a bigger preparation space.

Anyone wishing to find out more can head to https://pa.shropshire.gov.uk/online-applications/ and search for 20/03754/LBC

It closes on Friday, October 16.