listed buildings. A statue, dated 1863, by E. B. Stephens of the 1st Earl Fortescue stands in the yard: it is Grade II listed. As the relevant planning authority, the city council explained its concerns about the future of the castle. It stated its view that whatever its future use, the castle should be opened up to reasonable public access and integrated into the cultural quarter of the city as a key element, the historic importance and quality of the site and buildings should be respected, and at least the impressive courtyard of the castle should be available for public events even if the buildings are purchased for commercial use. As an example of this new use, the band Coldplay played a charity concert in the courtyard in December 2009 during its Viva la Vida Tour. In 2011, the former Court 1 reopened as the Ballroom, with its arched windows lowered to floor level; lavatories were installed in the former holding cells for prisoners. Court 2 reopened as the Gallery, of 150 square metres. In addition, 12 new apartments were created within the walls of the castle. References Notes Bibliography External links Exeter Castle official website – www.exetercastle.co.uk. "Historic castle goes up for sale". (7 November 2005). BBC News "Northernhay Gardens including the castle". Castles in Devon History of Exeter Buildings and structures in Exeter Tourist attractions in Exeter 1068 establishments in England Ruins in Devon Grade I listed buildings in Devon Geology of Devon Ruined castles in England