PLANS to revive a historic landmark and its surrounds go on show to the public next week.

Local people can run the rule over the restoration proposals for Hylton Castle, a 14th Century relic, in Sunderland.

The Hylton Castle Project will see the restoration of the buildings and grounds of the original gatehouse, while also creating a new centre for heritage and learning in the heart of the community.

Site designs are now at an advanced stage, with contractors due to be appointed in the next few weeks to begin the restoration work.

A public drop-in session has been arranged at the nearby Bunnyhill Centre, in Downhill, on Tuesday, from 2.30 to 7pm.

The plans will be on show, with members of the project team on hand to answer queries.

Learning manager Elanor Johnson, who joined director Jon Charlton on the team last month, said: “It’s great to see the vision of a new future for Hylton Castle taking shape, and we are looking forward to hearing ideas from the community and helping turn them in to reality.”

She is keen to hear from anyone keen to become involved in the project, and can be contacted via elanor.johnson@sunderland.gov.uk, or by ringing 0191-561 8611.

The most recent developments can be viewed on www.hyltoncastle.org.uk, the project’s new website.