THE historic Sandsfoot Castle in Weymouth has been fenced off to visitors after ‘problematic’ cracks formed in the castle's walls.

Sandsfoot Castle, based off Old Castle Road, was originally built by Henry VIII in 1539 to protect his kingdom from foreign invasion but was later abandoned by the military in 1665.

Since then, it has become an iconic ruin overlooking Portland Harbour and its surrounding gardens are popular with walkers and tourists.

Weymouth Town Council made the decision to close the castle ruins after workers discovered two vertical cracks had ‘widened on an internal wall’.

Dorset Echo: The historic Sandsfoot Castle has been fenced off by Weymouth Town Council after cracks formed within the ruin's walls. Picture: Dorset Echo/Michael TaylorThe historic Sandsfoot Castle has been fenced off by Weymouth Town Council after cracks formed within the ruin's walls. Picture: Dorset Echo/Michael Taylor

Workers found a ‘problematic’ crack formed above the picture arch on the south side section of wall and an unsecured springer stone was left in a ‘dangerous condition’.

Two workers from Weymouth Town Council were at the scene yesterday afternoon to install a fence around the castle to prevent anyone from accessing the site.

A spokesman for Weymouth Town Council said the authority will be working with Dorset Council and Historic England to carry out essential repairs on the castle ruins.

He said: “Unfortunately due to health and safety issues, we’ve had to close Sandsfoot Castle. Dorset Council has been notified.

Dorset Echo: One of the troubling cracks at the castleOne of the troubling cracks at the castle

“Members of our team noted that two vertical cracks had widened on an internal wall within the castle.

“The crack that posed more of a problem was above the picture arch on the south side section of wall.

“Local contractors also found a springer stone that is not secured properly and is in a dangerous condition.

“We’ll be placing fencing around the perimeter of the castle, while we work with Dorset Council and Historic England to carry out any necessary works.”

One passer-by was left shocked and saddened by the damage to the historic site and said they hoped it can be repaired soon.

Dorset Echo: Weymouth Town Council will be in discussions with Historic England and Dorset Council to repair the castle. Weymouth Town Council will be in discussions with Historic England and Dorset Council to repair the castle.

He also expressed fears that the damage could worsen because of upcoming wet and windy weather caused by Storm Christoph.

He said: “I like to visit this castle whenever I can for my walk.

“It was quite sad to see this local landmark fenced off, but it makes sense to do so. We don’t want something tragic to happen or any further damage to be caused.

“Hopefully this can be safely repaired and restored.”