According to these sources, the building that existed before the 12th century at this location was not a fortification, but a simple manor, which was awarded to Gernon by Richard I during the 12th century, and Gernon fortified the manor. This hypothesis is based on the views of M.J. Swanton, formed after their 1969 and 1971 excavations of the location which showed that the remains of pottery found in the south-eastern side of the bailey were most probably from the 12th or 13th century.
According to these sources, the structure that existed before the 12th century was not a fortification but a manor. Gernon received it from Richard I during that century and later fortified it. This hypothesis is based on M.J. Swanton's analysis of excavations conducted in 1969 and 1971, which indicated pottery remains dating to the 12th or 13th century.