Turret Gateway

Saving a medieval landmark and bringing it back to life

The Turret Gateway is one of Leicester’s most iconic medieval buildings. It is the original entrance to the castle’s inner bailey, built in 1422. But after centuries of weathering and neglect, it was in real trouble. Masonry was crumbling, and the structure had landed on Historic England’s Buildings at Risk Register. The council needed expert help to understand the damage and take the first steps toward securing its future.

Working with Levitate, I carried out a detailed condition survey, investigating the structure up close to identify the key issues and their causes. I then prepared a sensitive, practical repair scheme designing the right interventions and providing drawings and specifications that would respect the building’s significance while addressing its urgent needs.

As a result, the repairs stabilised the gateway, preserved its character and led directly to its removal from the Buildings at Risk Register. A historic monument that had been quietly falling apart is now proudly standing strong again, safe for the future and ready to be admired by the next generation of Leicester locals and visitors alike.