Share your historical knowledge to help revitalise North Walsham!

Date published: 21st January 2021

• Historic England is conducting the first detailed study of the buildings of North Walsham’s historic town centre as part of the North Walsham High Street Heritage Action Zone
• Share your photographs, information and memories to help Historic England’s Architectural Investigators uncover the rich history of North Walsham
• This detailed study will inspire and inform the revitalisation of North Walsham and celebrate the town’s unique character
• See some images here

Historic England is working in partnership with North Norfolk District Council to revitalise North Walsham’s historic town centre, including the Market Place and Market Cross.

To inform and inspire this exciting High Street Heritage Action Zone project, Historic England’s Architectural Investigators are carrying out detailed research and analysis of the historic town centre of North Walsham – and they need your help!

North Walsham has a rich character, fascinating history and fine architecture. Despite the town’s significance, its buildings have not been the subject of detailed historic study until now. Historic England’s Architectural Investigators will explore the historic buildings and architectural development of North Walsham and delve into archives to produce a Historic Area Assessment, creating a greater understanding of the town centre and a firm evidence base for future planning and improvement decisions.

Historic England’s Architectural Investigators are keen to hear from anyone with historic photos or information, particularly relating to the buildings in and around the Market Place and Market Street, including any early or unusual features.

Dr Emily Cole, Senior Architectural Investigator for Historic England, said: “We’re excited about the possibility of uncovering knowledge, memories, photographs and documents that will tell us more about North Walsham’s buildings and reveal the town’s fascinating past. We’re really hoping this will give us a great opportunity to engage with and chat to residents and locals about the town’s history. This indepth survey, the first of its kind for North Walsham, will help the High Street Heritage Action Zone to revitalise the heart of the town and will increase appreciation of its unique character.”

To share your historical and architectural gems, please contact Jenni Jordan, North Walsham High Street Heritage Action Zone Project Manager, by March 1 2021:

northwalsham.hshaz@north-norfolk.gov.uk                                                                           

Jenni is working closely with the Historic England Architectural Investigator team and would love to hear from local people about this project and encourage them to get involved in bringing the heritage of North Walsham to life.

Cllr Richard Kershaw, North Norfolk District Council’s Portfolio Holder for Sustainable Growth, said: “The Council is so pleased to be working with Historic England on this exciting project and I encourage residents to contribute by submitting items of interest and help put North Walsham on the map as the vibrant, fascinating town it is.”

North Walsham High Street Heritage Action Zone                                                                      

The North Walsham High Street Heritage Action Zone has been awarded £975,000 by the government-funded High Street Heritage Action Zones project delivered by Historic England. Additional funding from the government of £1.17m has been invested by the New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership as part of the Getting Building Fund.

North Walsham has a rich architectural history stretching back to the medieval period, and strong associations with Nelson and the Paston family. The Grade II listed Paston College was founded 400 years ago and its famous alumni include Admiral Horatio Nelson and Stephen Fry.

The High Street Heritage Action Zone is focused around the medieval market place and the Grade I listed Market Cross. Historic buildings in this area include some with beautiful Dutch gables.

The North Walsham High Street Heritage Action Zone aims to create a genuine sense of pride and ownership in North Walsham as a place to live, learn, work and visit. The long term sustainability and resilience of the High Street will act as a catalyst for further regeneration, making the town visually more attractive and showcasing its historic character. Cultural and community activities will support the local economy, increase footfall and improve wellbeing.

The scheme will see the restoration and repurposing of historic buildings, including the former town council offices at the Cedars, a key heritage site at the entrance to the High Street. It will improve the public realm, reducing traffic and making improvements to the market place area at the heart of North Walsham.