Plans for the restoration of a medieval castle and grounds in Wiltshire have taken another step forward.

The latest plans for improvements at Devizes Castle involve tree works in the castle’s grounds, including removing deadwood.

An application for these works has been submitted to Wiltshire Council and a decision is expected before Christmas.

The latest proposals, which have been submitted by applicant Mr Kazu, come after Kazuhiko Akao, who bought large parts of the castle in February 2022, submitted restoration plans last year.

This scheme, which is intended to preserve the historic site, was approved by Wiltshire Council.

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The castle has been a feature of the town since the 11th century and includes a 19th century house that was built atop the surviving earthworks of the medieval castle.

A planning statement prepared for Mr Akao last year warned the building was in “a state of severe disrepair, with considerable structural damage”, but the owner has since been working to amend this with “urgent” repairs.

At the time, a design and access statement said: “The new owner’s aspiration is to conserve and sensitively repair and restore the castle, its grounds, and other associated elements.

“Through careful and responsible stewardship and significant financial investment, the new owner is committed to safeguarding the building and its grounds.”