CONCERNS have been raised that Colchester Castle is "at risk" following issues with drainage on its roof.

Colchester Castle is one the 159 new entries to the Heritage at Risk Register.

The historic Norman Keep has been added to the register due to “localised” issues with its drainage system, affecting the keep’s north-west area.

The castle is a scheduled monument.

The ‘At-risk Register’ by Historic England is an “annual snapshot” and list of historic buildings and sites at risk of “neglect, decay, or inappropriate development”.

Colchester Museums manager Pippa Pickles stressed that though the castle is on the Heritage at-risk register this does not mean it is dangerous or risky for the public.

Ms Pickles said the castle’s inclusion on the list reflects how important Historic England’s expert consultation has been.

She said: “An impressive amount of investigation has been done."

Gazette: Localised - Historic England say Colchester Castle is generally satisfactory but with significant localised problemsLocalised - Historic England say Colchester Castle is generally satisfactory but with significant localised problems (Image: Newsquest)

On the roof, open to the public in guided tours, it is clear as day that the drainage system needs a major upgrade with there being numerous puddles across the flat roof.

Gazette: Drainage - In summer the puddles can eventually evaporate but even a small amount of rainfall can create puddlesDrainage - In summer the puddles can eventually evaporate but even a small amount of rainfall can create puddles (Image: Newsquest)

Pippa explained how the extent of the extent of this problem has never happened before and that this was due to the region’s worse weather in recent years.

She added: “2023 has been very wet at times, with persistent, lengthy rain fall."

Gazette: Moss - The moss and vegetation on the castle's roof has been growing quicker due to the dampness, and also seen is part of the drainage systemMoss - The moss and vegetation on the castle's roof has been growing quicker due to the dampness, and also seen is part of the drainage system (Image: Newsquest)

Ms Pickles described how the roof was made in the 1930s, with the castle was previously open to the elements, and so the roof itself is Grade I listed, meaning it is protected.

Gazette: Listed - Inside the museum, the Grade I 1930s roof’s value was clearer with the support-beams and girders being designated as ‘aesthetically pleasing’Listed - Inside the museum, the Grade I 1930s roof’s value was clearer with the support-beams and girders being designated as ‘aesthetically pleasing’ (Image: Newsquest)

Another factor is honouring the “romantic look” of castle, with its exposed bricks, though beautiful, being another opportunity for damp.

Ms  Pickles explained how for the trained-eye, the top two-feet of the North-west area was visibly darker due to dampness.

Ms Pickles said he variations in colour were not definitive because of how the castle, built in stages, would have had differing mortar colours.

Gazette: Protected - The front wall of the castle was notably less discoloured due to that section of the castle’s 1980s drainage system, crucially hanging over the medieval wallProtected - The front wall of the castle was notably less discoloured due to that section of the castle’s 1980s drainage system, crucially hanging over the medieval wall (Image: Newsquest)

Michelle Burrows, portfolio holder for leisure, culture and heritage, said: “Colchester City Council and Colchester Museums are proud custodians of many historic Colchester buildings, including Colchester Castle, Europe's largest Norman Keep.

"Their maintenance and upkeep is a key priority."

Ms Pickles explained how there should be a clear plan by this time next-year.