Doncaster Council has netted £60,000 of development funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) to develop detailed plans for an overhaul of Conisbrough Castle.

The first-round pass will enable the local authority to work on a bid for up to £1m worth of investment, which is to help enhance the visitor experience of the attraction. Plans also include encouraging greater community interaction and improvements to access at the castle, which dates back to the 12th century in its current state.

Doncaster Council and English Heritage are now consulting with local residents to explore the type of improvements that are preferred for the castle site. Peter Davies, mayor of Doncaster, said: "Conisbrough Castle is a unique ancient monument and one of the borough's greatest tourism assets."

"I would welcome any developments which would help draw more visitors into Doncaster and boost our local economy." Fiona Spiers, head of the HLF in Yorkshire and the Humber, added: "While this is just the beginning of the journey, the award of this development money will now enable plans for a full grant to be worked up in the future."