Archaeologists will be conducting test excavations as part of the ongoing work by the Department of the Environment to uncover more of the castle's history and to inform future development of the castle to enhance the visitor's experience.

The castle has a long history and has been continuously occupied for more than 800 years since it was constructed in the late twelfth century by John de Courcy.

Test excavations will be carried out at two locations to find out more about the date and survival of archaeology in the inner and outer wards. Neither of these areas have been subject to such detailed investigation before. Excavation is vital before new projects are put in place at the castle.

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One area of testing will focus on the remains of the Great Hall in the Inner Ward, one of the most important public areas of this Medieval Castle when it was first built by John de Courcy. The second area of testing will be in the outer ward to find out what archaeological layers survive there at present. Neither of these areas have been subject to detailed investigation before, and before new projects are put in place at the castle it is important that we find out what still survives within its walls.

Environment Minister Mark H Durkan said: "This is an exciting new phase in the life of Carrickfergus Castle. We do not know yet what we will find in the excavations and we want to make sure that any new discoveries become part of visitor experience at the site.

"I announced major funding for heritage-led development at sites such as Carrickfergus, Dundrum and Tullaghoge which will help strengthen Northern Ireland's unique heritage offering for all visitors to our treasured sites."

(CD/MH)