Hay-on-Wye is world famous as the ‘town of books' and home of the Hay Festival. The project, which has received major funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund, will serve to broaden and enhance the appeal of this special place, opening the castle to the public for the first time, year round.

The appointment was made following a highly competitive tender process. Nancy Lavin Albert, Managing Director, said ‘RMA was selected because they exhibited great sensitivity and understanding of the building and site, have a highly collaborative approach, and a record of exceptional design and completion of complex projects. Their vision and attention to detail were exceptional and thrilling.'

Rick Mather Architects' award-winning design team will be led by partner Stuart Cade and include architects Juliet Aston and Andy Matthews. The team has previous worked on significant historic buildings including the Ashmolean Museum and Corpus Christi College,Oxford. RMA will bring together specialists to work on the project, including conservation architects Acanthus Clews; landscape architect Jeremy Rye; structural engineers Haskins Robinson Waters; Mott MacDonald Engineering; environmental consultancy Engain; and Oxford Archaeology.

Stuart Cade said ‘At Rick Mather Architects we are excited to be embarking on the realisation of the Trust's inspired vision for the Castle. Using our extensive experience with historic structures, we will be working with our team of conservation specialists, architects and engineers in collaboration with the Trust and the community to create a 21C chapter in the site's long and rich history.' Over the coming months the architectural team will work closely with Hay Castle Trust, relevant planning and conservation authorities and the community to develop initial concepts and begin preliminary works. A public information day with the design team and key stakeholders will take place on Saturday 21 February. To attend or for further information contact info@haycastletrust.org or visit www.haycastletrust.org.