Welsh Assembly Government finance minister Sue Essex has announced a funding package of £250,000 for Cadw, the Assembly’s historic environment service, to invest in improving the experience at two of Wales’s best-loved historic monuments for visitors with sensory impairments.

Castell Coch in Cardiff and Plas Mawr Elizabethan Townhouse & Garden in Conwy are likely to benefit from the introduction of interactive elements such as three-dimensional models of the monuments, ‘smell-boxes’ and fabric swatches.

Before work begins, user groups will be invited to visit Castell Coch in its present state and then assist in the preparation of a detailed development plan.

Minister for culture, Welsh language and sport, Alun Pugh, who bid for the cash, said: "Cadw has made good progress in making its monuments more accessible to people with physical disabilities and I'm pleased that it is now possible to widen the focus to include sensory access.”

Cadw is also set to close the11th century Castell Coch to visitors between 18 September and 2 October for essential maintenance work.

Specialist conservation contractors will carry out a programme of investigative and remedial works to eliminate water damage which has affected the paint schemes in Lord and Lady Bute’s bedrooms and elsewhere.

The statue of the Madonna and Child above the entrance will be conserved and windows, shutters and timberwork will be repaired.

Alun Pugh said of the project: “We have a wonderful historic environment in Wales and it is important that we care for our most treasured monuments by undertaking essential restoration and maintenance work.

“The works at Castell Coch, as a building of outstanding architectural and historic interest, will safeguard the castle for future generations to enjoy.” Details: www.cadw.wales.gov.uk

Photograph: Castell Coch (www.britainonview.com)