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Landscape improvements around Waytemore Castle

An aerial photo of Waytemore Castle Mound in Bishops Stortford

The hedge at the base of Waytemore Castle mound is being taken out as part of the on-going landscape improvements.  It will be replaced with traditional metal estate railings which will make the castle more prominent within the landscape. 

The removal of the hedge will focus attention back onto the monument and, along with some new dramatic lighting, help to discourage anti-social behaviour and littering. Visitors will continue to access the mound via the existing steps.

The hedge, a relatively modern addition, has no historical significance.  In contrast, the castle motte, a medieval fortification introduced into Britain by the Normans, is over nine hundred years old.   Built in towns, villages and open countryside, motte and bailey castles occupied strategic positions and dominated their immediate locality.                                                              

The hedge is primarily box hedging which has been suffering from box tree moth infestation.  New hedges are being planted in other areas of the park, including around the war memorial.

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