Development of Placemaking Initiatives Set for North Walsham High Street Heritage Area
North Walsham, a town in the North Norfolk district of Norfolk, England, is set to undergo a significant transformation over the next four years. The North Walsham High Street Heritage Action Zone project, a £95 million government-funded programme led by Historic England, aims to secure lasting improvements for the town's historic core.
The project is a collaborative effort involving the North Norfolk District Council, Cllr Richard Kershaw, Rees Bolter Architects, BSP for highways and transport consultancy, Gleeds Cost Management, and Influence, chartered landscape architects. Cllr Kershaw expressed his pleasure at working with Influence on this project, while Shona Hatton, associate director at Influence, expressed her excitement for its potential impact on the town.
The project's objectives include making the town centre a destination that embraces its heritage and community. To achieve this, the programme of work includes physical interventions such as placemaking work and Building Improvements grants, as well as community-led programming.
One of the key areas of focus is the derelict area adjacent to Black Swan Loke. The Council intends to purchase this land to improve the town centre's pedestrian approach. Master planning and consultation will be led by HETA, a studio of architects, designers, and thinkers, who aim to provide sustainable solutions to urban planning and have experience working with local authorities and communities.
The project also aims to bring the town's rich history and stories to life through various arts and cultural programs. The Council will provide match funding for the project, and additional funding has been secured from the New Anglia LEP's "Getting Building Fund".
Historic England, the public body that helps people care for, enjoy, and celebrate England's historic environment, is committed to protecting, championing, and saving places that define England's history and heritage. The Heritage Action Zone grant will provide an opportunity to review the options for the most suitable use of the Council's New Road site and the Listed buildings on it (known as The Cedars).
The North Norfolk District Council is conducting this project, and Cllr Kershaw is optimistic about the positive changes it will bring to the town. With the combined efforts of all partners, North Walsham's High Street is poised for a revitalization that celebrates its unique history and enhances its appeal for both locals and visitors alike. Essential repair work is set to begin soon as part of this exciting project.
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