Building in Context: A Town (and Riverside) Development in Historic Thetford

March 11th , 10 am - 4pm,
Breckland House, Thetford

"I think this training highlighted important issues relevant to development of these sites which have not received adequate consideration to date"

Historic Thetford provided a superb case study for Shape East's 4th Building in Context seminar attended by a variety of Design and Heritage Champions, Planning, Regeneration and Conservation officers, Elected Members and interested parties and professionals.

In common with a number of cities in the East, Thetford is facing rapid expansion and ambitious growth targets. Awarded Growth Point status and a key centre for residential and economic growth, Thetford will increase in size by 6,000 houses whilst preserving or enhancing its considerable natural and historic assets. The city’s town centre will be regenerated and enlarged to become the focus for the community for leisure and shopping.

The day opened in an exploration of the general dilemmas and issues faced in urban design and development, through a number of both practical and engaging presentations from commentators such as urban designer Rob Cowen, architect Rob Sakula and English Heritage Historic areas specialist Nigel Barker. A closer study of the Thetford area in question was then provided before smaller break-out groups allowed space for a much deeper analysis and discussion of the area in question. A final guided tour of the site then closed the day in a highly practical and enjoyable manner.

Feedback :

“Another great seminar, thank you ”

"I think this training highlighted important issues relevant to development of these sites which have not received adequate consideration to date"

“Experts were funny and personable ”

Further Resources:

Speakers presentations are now available for download, by clicking on the desired name:

• Nigel Barker, Team Leader and Historic Areas Advisor, English Heritage (SE Region)
• Robert Sakula, Ash Sakula Architects
• Nick Moys, Principal Planning Officer, Breckland Council
• Ken Hamilton, Head of Archaeological Planning, Norfolk Landscape Archaeology
• Jamie Smith, Assistant Historic Buildings Officer, Breckland Council