Great Yarmouth’s art deco pub The Iron Duke awarded £2.4million by The National Lottery Heritage Fund

Restoration efforts led by Great Yarmouth Preservation Trust have taken a leap forward with a £2,405,000 grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. The Iron Duke restoration project will breathe life back into the derelict building and give it a long-term sustainable future.

Burrell Foley Fischer’s plans will see the stunning art deco building fully and faithfully restored back to how it would have originally looked in its heyday as a beacon of 1930’s modernity. The team have made use of the original plans and consulted with former owners, managers and users to ensure authenticity.

When fully repaired, the grade II listed building will be a year-round local destination, support the local economy by creating up to 50 jobs, and work with the community offering opportunities to learn, train and volunteer on a host of activities.

The building has been vacant, neglected and forlorn since 2007. Its transformation is being made possible thanks to the Heritage Fund and National Lottery players, along with funding from Great Yarmouth Preservation Trust and Norfolk County Council. 

On the ground floor the new tenants, Zaks, will create a pub in one of the two original bars serving local beers from Lacons Brewery, who were The Iron Duke’s original owners, and cocktails with a nod to the 1930’s period. The other bar will become a restaurant where food will be cooked in view of the customers. Both bars will have an elegant art deco aesthetic which has been developed through researching the historic archives and input from conservation paint consultants, architectural historians and interior designers.

In the past the first floor provided accommodation for the pub manager. This space will be repurposed to create two holiday flats, helping to ensure that the investment by the Heritage Fund, Great Yarmouth Preservation Trust and Zaks will provide a long term viable solution to the currently vacant building.  Both flats will be designed and decorated with an art deco theme to provide fabulous holiday accommodation in keeping with the building’s heritage. The area around the building will be carefully landscaped and designs will allow access for all.

In addition to the construction and restoration work there will be a range of opportunities for the people to become involved with the project, these include learning traditional building skills, an ongoing photography recording project, workshops centred around food and cooking with an emphasis on local and low cost, a painting scheme to create murals for the hoardings around the site depicting the history of the building and much more.

Great Yarmouth Preservation Trust began working to secure a future for the Iron Duke in 2023, backed by a development grant from the Heritage Fund. With commercial partners Zaks they have worked with a team of architects, consultants and other experts to develop the project to a point where the physical restoration can begin.

Great Yarmouth Preservation Trust and partners are working to a programme which will see this wonderful building open and serving pints by early summer 2026.

Bernard Williamson, Chairman Great Yarmouth Preservation Trust said:

“We are incredibly grateful for the support of the National Lottery Heritage Fund in enabling us to take this project forward and start to deliver the full restoration and economic reuse of this incredibly important listed building.”

Chris Carr, Co-Owner Zaks (UK) Ltd said:

“Ian and I are excited to bring a new concept to Great Yarmouth. The Iron Duke is such an Iconic building, and we look forward to working with GYPT to breathe life back into it. Being both local and already having a business in the town, we look forward to creating new jobs, working with the diverse community, and forming further partnerships with local businesses and suppliers. We know it will be a real destination for both locals and visitors to Great Yarmouth.”

The grant is another example of the Heritage Fund’s long term support for Great Yarmouth which over the years has helped to secure the future of scores of historic assets such as the Time and Tide Museum, St Georges Theatre, The Waterways, Winter Gardens and now The Iron Duke. Liz Bates, Area Director, England, Midlands & East at The National Lottery Heritage Fund said:

“We are pleased to support Great Yarmouth Preservation Trust’s plans for the Iron Duke’s restoration and revival. Thanks to money raised by National Lottery players, our Heritage Enterprise grants are designed to assist projects in finding viable futures for historic buildings at risk from dereliction and decay. Establishing a sustainable commercial use for the Iron Duke will bring benefits for the local community and ensure the building’s unique character can be celebrated and enjoyed.”

Positive response to consultation of proposals for Bournville Heritage Buildings and Green spaces

The results of a consultation looking at how some of Bournville’s heritage buildings and green spaces could be repurposed for the benefit of the community are now available. Over 2,000 people responded to the Celebration Bournville consultation last year that was run by long-serving charitable trust Bournville Village Trust and Mondelēz International.

The consultation was also supported by a stakeholder group made up of representatives from community groups, organisations and businesses from the Bournville community. People were able to share their views on a range of ideas, in the form of conceptual drawings, for places such as the Walled Garden and former Cadbury Club.

The purpose of the consultation was to ascertain views of respondents to suggestions regarding the long term future of a set of heritage assets in Bournville – assets that generally either require maintenance or which are underused – meaning that there is a need to consider their long-term future. The suggestions had been drawn up by an architect’s team consisting of Burrell Foley Fischer, Donald Insall Associates, CFP, and PMP Consultants.

Of the 2,078 people who took part in the consultation, on average 81% of people were in favour of the overall project. These include suggestions for a restaurant in Bournville Pavilion, a wellbeing centre at the Claypits Pool and more sports and facilities for young people at Rowheath Pavilion.

Ruth Miller, an independent consultant who is leading the Celebration Bournville project on behalf of Bournville Village Trust and Mondelēz International, said:

 “We would like to thank everyone who took part in the Celebration Bournville consultation. What the consultation findings clearly show is that there is huge enthusiasm and passion for heritage buildings and green spaces in Bournville. However, some of these buildings and spaces are inaccessible or underused, and the community told us they want more community and recreational opportunities, social and leisure activities and sports and facilities for young people.

Bournville Village Trust, Mondelēz International and the Community Stakeholder Group are now in the very early stages of exploring the feasibility of the ideas that were consulted on. They will continue to work closely with the community to manage the concerns that were raised by some people and businesses through the consultation.”

Designs for new Andover Theatre revealed

Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC) has unveiled the plans for the town’s spectacular new theatre and performance venue, which will be located in the heart of the town, providing capacity for up to 1000 people. The council has been working closely with specialist architects Burrell Foley Fischer (BFF), and a host of technical experts, to develop a design that retains the spirit of The Lights whilst providing a range of multipurpose modern facilities.

The need for a new theatre was first identified during the development of the Andover Masterplan, where more than 4,100 people contributed their thoughts about the future changes they wanted to see in the town. The results from this widespread public engagement showed that almost 80% of Andover residents highlighted a requirement for a new theatre in the town centre.

Since then, the council has been working to get this project in motion and deliver on the community’s aspirations. Having been awarded £18.3m from the government to put towards the project, TVBC is now forging ahead to create a state-of the-art theatre, which will become the new home to The Lights.

The freshly unveiled design proposals present an inspiring new venue which will offer a host of contemporary facilities. Set across three floors, it will house a multitude of spaces for the community to enjoy.

The main auditorium will provide 420 seats, an increase from the 249 available at the current theatre. Whilst larger in size and with bigger seats and more leg room in each row, the architects have designed the auditorium in a curved shape to create an intimate space for both audience members and performers.

The new venue will also feature a second event space which can be used flexibly to accommodate 120 seated to 350 standing, with retractable seating and a pop-up stage for music and comedy gigs and room for sit-down banquets.

Local creative arts organisations will benefit from professional dance studios, situated on the first floor, featuring sprung floors and windows looking out across the High Street and Riverside Park. The third floor will house meeting rooms which can be hired out to the public. There will be two cafe/bars at either end of the building and lovely terraced spaces for visitors to make use of in the warmer months.

Leader of Test Valley Borough Council, Cllr Phi North said:

“Ever since I became leader of Test Valley, I’ve made town centre regeneration our number one priority; during that time we’ve bought the Chantry Centre, carried out significant public engagement culminating in the masterplan, delivered the early phases, lobbied for and won the money from central government and we’re now on the cusp of delivering something totally transformational for the town. We only get one shot at this and it’s my view we didn’t want to settle for an identikit theatre, we wanted to create a new public building that local people can be proud of for generations to come. I think the architects have done a fabulous job delivering on that aspiration by using high quality materials and ensuring the specification fits the business plan.”

“With increased capacity we have a real opportunity to bring so many more people into the town and support the local economy. I encourage everyone to have a look at the designs online or pop into town to meet with the project team and find out more. These are very exciting times ahead and I can’t wait to see the designs come to life.”

One of the striking differences between the new venue and The Lights will be the ability to run shows and events in both the auditorium and second event space simultaneously, as well as operating classes and meetings in other locations around the building. Quality sound proofing and an enhanced design will mean the venue can run at full occupancy.

Paul Marsh, of Andover Musical Theatre Company (AMTC) said: 

"The plans for the new theatre are very ambitious. The proposed design will remove some of the limitations of the current theatre and provide opportunities to expand AMTC's productions, offering both our performers and audience a new level of excitement. The new theatre really gives us a chance to significantly improve the town and I look forward to the council working with the arts community in Andover on this venture."

At full capacity the venue will accommodate just under 1000 people, which will see an incredible uplift in footfall in the town centre. This in turn will help to enhance the local economy, supporting food and drink establishments in the town and enticing new businesses to come into Andover to meet demand.

In addition to the internal facilities the architects have put a lot of thought into the exterior of the building, capturing the essence of Andover, its history and natural environment throughout the design and materials.  Taking inspiration from two core public buildings in the town, St Mary’s Church and the Guildhall, as well as considering the inner happenings of the theatre, in terms of movement, patterns and rhythm, the façade will feature carefully structured curved arches at the either end. The building will be made from light coloured stone, to reflect the local chalk stream, with pale brick and elements of natural flint and bronze.

There will be two separate entrances, the first coming straight off of the High Street which will lead onto a newly created Theatre Square. The proposals detail moving the entrance of the Chantry Centre back, to create an open and welcoming space in front of the cultural venue.

The second entrance will be located opposite Town Mills Riverside Park, where the architects plan to seamlessly connect the theatre with the leafy green backdrop behind. This area will come alive with greenery, to compliment the chalk stream-friendly plants already established in the park.

Kit Malthouse MP said:

“We set ourselves the task of creating a building that would house a first-class theatre for the town but also be a new landmark building for Andover, setting the standard for the rest of the town centre redevelopment. BFF have achieved both those things in spades, and they deserve our thanks and congratulations. The designs look great. Demolition should start soon. Construction swiftly after that. First curtain up in 2027! Bravo!”

Over the past few weeks the architects have met with many key groups to review the plans and hear their thoughts about how they want to use the new space. This has included regular hirers, staff operating the technical aspects of the theatre and organisations representing disability groups.

Having had the opportunity to talk in detail about the current venue and the constraints of the building, BFF have ensured the new theatre will be much more accessible for visitors with lifts, wider rows, more wheelchair spaces on multiple levels and walkways with a gentle incline in the main auditorium.

The theatre will also be located directly next to the multistorey car park which will provide disabled parking bays. There will be a drop-off point and taxi ranks available directly outside the theatre next to Riverside Park.

Helen Grassly, Director of BFF said:

“It has been a real pleasure developing the design for the new theatre with the teams at The Lights and TVBC. We have been tasked with delivering something technically excellent with high quality facilities for both professional and community users, while keeping the warm welcome and intimacy of the existing Lights. Our new building makes the most of the town centre site, with visible activity on the three public facades and a landscape design linking the High Street and the river Anton.”

A planning application to demolish the former Poundstretcher unit, where the theatre will be located, was approved last month and TVBC is currently tendering for a contractor to start demolition in late spring. The council will submit an application to build the new theatre in May, with a view to beginning construction in 2026. Audiences can then look forward to the new venue openings its doors in 2027.

The plans are now available to view at www.thinkandovertowncentre.co.uk and be on display in the Lights arena and former O2 unit inside the Chantry Centre.

The restored former Kidderminster Magistrates Court opens as a Business and Creative Hub

The restoration of the Grade II Listed Former Magistrates' Court in Kidderminster town centre, designed by Burrell Foley Fischer, is now complete and open for business as ‘The Old Court’. The renovation of the new facility, commissioned and managed by Wyre Forest District Council has restored and maximised the potential of the whole site as Kidderminster’s business and creative hub.

Images courtesy of Wyre Forest District Council

The Old Court is a Grade II listed building designed in the Queen Anne Revival style by the architect J G Bland of Birmingham and built between 1878-1879 for R J Willis, a company known for making Brussels carpets. In 1883 the premises were sold to Woodward, Grosvenor and Company and used as their main offices and showroom. The adjacent weaving sheds appear to have been extended at this time. (Historic England)

In 1971 the building and weaving sheds were sold to the borough council, and part of the main building was converted to house the Magistrates' Court with the remaining premises used as office accommodation for various council departments. The weaving sheds to the rear became a covered market until the mid-1990s. The Magistrates Court moved to new premises in mid-2000s, and the building has remained vacant since then. (Historic England)

The impressive building now provides 1,800 sqm of high-quality office and event space available to rent, alongside county wide innovation projects newly installed into the building.  There are three floors accessed by a lift which offer individual workspaces, shared kitchen, event spaces, meeting rooms and kitchen, shower and toilet facilities. The former court chamber itself is now a large light, bright conference and meeting room, with seating capacity for 120 people.

The Former Magistrates’ Court site forms a highly visual gateway to the town. Its easterly façade is the first sight of the town centre as you approach Kidderminster from the railway station and by road from Bromsgrove and South Birmingham. There is a small public landscape area opposite the south west frontage of the main building - Coronation Gardens - which was created in 1952.

The transformation of the Old Court is intended to play a key role in renewing and reshaping Kidderminster town centre, developing a highly visible gateway building whilst re-purposing a significant historic asset. Thanks to the restoration project, the outside public space has also been enhanced, providing a pedestrian route through town as well as offering a small children’s play area.

CLICK HERE to listen to Aidan Ridyard, Burrell Foley Fischer Partner, interviewed about the restoration by BBC Radio Hereford and Worcester.

As part of the regeneration of the Former Magistrates Court, the construction contractor BAM has been working in the wider community – particularly local schools and colleges - to promote and provide work opportunities to work in the industry.

The transformation of the Old Court and Weaving Sheds has been possible thanks to funding through the Future High Streets Fund (FHSF). The Ground and First floors have already been let, prior to the building reopening, with just the last few second floor suites still available. The Weaving Sheds area of the site will be open in Spring 2025.

Councillor Dan Morehead, Wyre Forest District Council’s Cabinet Member for Economic Regeneration, Planning and the Green Agenda said

“It’s very exciting to see the building transformed to retain its heritage feel with all the modern amenities making it fit for the future. Our intention is that local and regional businesses and organisations will welcome the addition of this high quality facility in the middle of town. The redevelopment of this site provides a critical element for the long-term vision by supporting Kidderminster’s economic and technological offer - a home for creative and digital industries - helping to drive growth and contribute to future sustainability.”

Councillor Marcus Hart, Leader of Wyre Forest District Council said

“This transformation will play a key role in renewing and reshaping Kidderminster town centre, developing a highly visible gateway building whilst re-purposing a significant historic asset. The outside public space has also been enhanced, helping to define the town centre’s identity and provide direction for a pedestrian route through town.”

York Guildhall shortlisted for Pineapple Award

The Restoration and Remodelling of York Guildhall by Burrell Foley Fischer has been shortlisted in the Creative Retrofit category at the 2025 Pineapples. The Guildhall complex, owned by City of York Council, comprises of Grade I, II* and II listed buildings built around a large 15th-century Guildhall. The refurbishment and remodelling has created a world class venue, combining civic, events and exhibition space with contemporary workspaces, in the heart of the historic city, and securing an economically viable and sustainable future for one of its most iconic buildings.

The Pineapples are the only awards that celebrate the very best in placemaking and place-led initiatives. With an exciting programme and a commitment to recognising projects that make a positive social, environmental and economic impact, they celebrate places that contribute to urban life and encourage people to live, work, dwell or play. The pineapple is an historic symbol of welcome in UK architecture, a fact that inspired the awards and its iconic golden pineapple trophy.

The Creative Retrofit category is an award for the reuse, refurbishment or retrofit of a single building or group of buildings, housing estate or street that is complete and extends the life of the built environment. Projects in this category include the reuse of an existing structure, building or product or part of a structure, building or product. The judges will be considering the impact of the project on the wider place, and how the initiative makes a positive environmental and social impact

The Guildhall project has delivered a comprehensive refurbishment of one of York’s most prestigious and historically significant buildings, together with new build interventions as necessary to re-purpose the complex for its new use. Best practice conservation principles have been adopted, in terms of the approach to enhancing and better revealing the significance of the heritage assets, whilst incorporating modern servicing and amenity requirements.

The restored complex offers a range of workspace solutions, managed by the University of York’s Business Hub ‘Enterprise Works’, together with conferencing and event spaces including the impressive Main Hall. Workspaces suit a variety of business needs; from coworking spaces to help foster collaboration, to office spaces to support business formation and growth. Meeting space is provided for community groups and social enterprise and the Council retain access to the Guildhall for civic events.

A café and separate restaurant unit benefits from the new south facing riverside courtyard and garden space with an exemplary landscape treatment, which together with the refurbishment of Common Hall Yard, improves public access throughout the complex, creates more attractive circulation routes and improved links to the historic city centre.

York Guildhall is one of the city’s most significant historic assets dating from the 15th century occupies a prestigious location on the north bank of the River Ouse. Following the City of York Council's decision to vacate the Guildhall in January 2012, the challenge of securing a sustainable and purposeful future for this iconic riverside complex - home to city governance for over 600 years -became a critical priority. The vision emerged to repurpose the Guildhall into a dynamic venue that would foster and support the growth of York's thriving business community.

The existing buildings were on the Heritage at Risk register, and the tower in particular required significant stabilisation. The Guildhall needed comprehensive refurbishment to improve its usability, including new heating and electrical services. Strategic new-build interventions were essential to re-purpose the complex for sustainable use. Burrell Foley Fischer’s scheme, through sensitive planning and a balanced understanding of new and existing elements, has successfully met the Council’s brief.

The planning process was a collaborative journey, with planners and heritage bodies working closely with the design team and an extensive community consultation. This began by establishing an agreed understanding of the site’s "need" and developing a response rooted in its significance. Forms and materials were tested iteratively to address design challenges, secure approvals, and refine solutions, a process that continued throughout construction as the building was fully revealed.

The Guildhall is a prominent feature of York’s iconic tourist views, necessitating a design for the new elements that is sensitive to its historic surroundings. Planners also emphasised the need to minimise both noise and visual impact on neighbouring properties. The site features a network of intimate, interconnected public spaces linked by narrow “ginnels.” The new-build elements seamlessly extend this design language, enhancing public access and significantly improving the quality of the public realm throughout the complex.

To mitigate disruption in York's narrow city-centre streets and address the site’s constrained access, the River Ouse was utilised for transporting materials. This innovative approach enabled the erection of an on-site tower crane and facilitated over 1,000 river deliveries during construction, bringing equipment and materials directly to the site. Construction components and methodologies were tailored to fit this delivery method, ensuring efficiency and reducing traffic impact.

The University of York, through York Science Park Ltd - a partnership with the City of York Council -has taken a long-term lease on the historic buildings to create a hub for business, enterprise, and events. This new space integrates the University’s innovation and business support services into the city centre, fostering inclusive and sustainable economic growth. Designed with flexibility in mind, the spaces can accommodate a variety of uses, adapting to evolving trends and needs.

The project prioritised preserving the historic fabric, with minimal demolition ensuring significant embodied energy savings. Given the building's Listed status, including areas of the highest designation, certain compromises were necessary regarding sustainability measures. Nonetheless, notable improvements to the building’s carbon footprint were achieved.

The thermal insulation of the existing building was improved where possible, including insulating the Guildhall roof itself. Secondary glazing, chosen for its low solar gain properties while maintaining clarity, was installed on south-facing windows. This reduces heat loss and heat gains, significantly reducing the need for mechanical cooling. Fan coils units provide both heating and cooling to South facing historic rooms and reused existing encasements and BWIC throughout to minimise damage.

A low-carbon option makes use of the energy from the adjoining river Ouse, to both heat and cool the building. Water is taken from the river, run through a heat exchanger, heat or coolth extracted, and then returned. This system has an annual efficiency of 350%.

Poor condition and access had seen the Guildhall’s use decline.  Today, the revitalised complex is a vibrant hub, accommodating tenants, employees, and hosting a wide array of events. The impact on the city is profound - preventing further deterioration of this historic asset while driving economic growth and generating high-value jobs. The Guildhall now stands as a beacon of heritage-led regeneration, combining sustainability with cultural and economic revitalisation.

The restoration of Great Yarmouth’s Winter Gardens featured in the Journal of the IHBC

The project led by Burrell Foley Fischer to restore the Grade II* Listed Winter Gardens in Great Yarmouth is featured in the latest issue of Context, the journal of the Institute of Historic Building Conservation (IHBC). The article explains how “The latest technologies are being used to transform the Victorian Winter Gardens, once amongst the least sustainable constructions imaginable, into a model of climate adaption.”

“The Grade II* Listed Winter Gardens in Great Yarmouth, the last of its kind in British seaside architecture, is currently unused, in a state of disrepair and on Historic England’s Heritage at Risk Register. As the only surviving Victorian iron-and-glass structure of its scale situated on a seaside promenade, it holds national significance. Upon completion of its restoration, this architectural masterpiece will once again serve as a vibrant ‘People’s Palace’, central to the town's cultural life, economy, and heritage.”

“The refurbishment will adhere to high conservation standards, ensuring the historic cast/wrought frame is carefully restored, with high quality materials for new timber screens and glazing. The proposed scheme includes the addition of a first-floor gallery, offering new perspectives both inside and outside the building.”

“The project aims to achieve net-zero carbon in operation, with the low-carbon interventions showcasing innovative sustainability measures for public education. The energy strategy will follow the ‘Lean, Mean, Green’ principles of energy conservation.

A key to this approach is restoring the Victorian method of natural ventilation, utilising high and low-level openings to regulate airflow. Six-metre diameter stratification ceiling fans will help to maintain a comfortable environment. These will be powered by a small solar PV array on the unglazed roof sections. Internal shading systems will mitigate extreme solar gain during the summer, while trapping heat within the building during winter.” 

“Biodiversity will be enhanced through a planting scheme that integrates endemic species and Victorian-era planting with local and drought-tolerant plants as well as native species from countries around the world linked to Great Yarmouth’s former trading routes. Peat-free soil and pesticide-free commitment will support the internal biodiversity net gain while contributing to the building’s climate resilience.

The planting plan will create an exotic space that will catch the imagination of guests. Emphasis has been placed on colour, both floral and leaf, and on spectacular growth forms. The planting will include palm trees, giant bananas, orchids, greenwalls and smaller species including desert succulents.”

“The new Great Yarmouth Winter Gardens will not be a botanic garden, rather a spectacular public garden creating an inspiring environment.”

The IHBC is the professional body for building conservation practitioners and historic environment experts working in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales, with connections to the Republic of Ireland. The Institute exists to establish, develop and maintain the highest standards of conservation practice, to support the effective protection and enhancement of the historic environment, and to promote heritage-led regeneration and access to the historic environment for all.

The full article by Faye Davies, a Specialist Conservation Architect and Managing Director of Burrell Foley Fischer, and Lawrence Williamson a Senior Mechanical Engineer at Buro Happold, can be read online at:

https://ihbconline.co.uk/context/182/30/

BFF to transform home of Sinfonia Smith Square

Burrell Foley Fischer have been chosen as architects for the restoration and remodelling of the Grade I Listed home of Sinfonia Smith Square in the heart of Westminster. The project entitled ‘Doors Open: Transforming lives through music at Sinfonia Smith Square Hall’ has been awarded a grant by The National Lottery Heritage Fund to transform the 18th Century building to a dynamic, world class, cultural and music venue, with emerging talent at its heart.

The project aims to repair the historic fabric, improve accessibility and facilities for players and guest artists and create an outstanding experience for audiences and visitors, through upgraded lighting, sound, heating and ventilation systems.  With an ambition to aim towards carbon zero, renewable energy technologies will be used in the building. Development funding of £452,035 has been awarded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund to help Smith Square Hall progress its plans to apply for a full National Lottery grant at a later date.

A masterpiece of Baroque Architecture, Smith Square Hall, formerly St John’s Smith Square, is a renowned central London venue for classical music, welcoming 50,000 people a year to some 240 concerts and events.  Recently rebranding to Sinfonia Smith Square, in April 2021 the building became home to Southbank Sinfonia, an orchestral development programme for young professional musicians. Its vision is to repair the building, making it a world-class cultural venue in London, whilst nurturing young, professional musicians through an annual orchestral development programme, alongside a schools learning and participation programme, and a new emerging talent pathway programme. 

The building, dating from 1728, is Grade I listed but is now in need of urgent repairs.  It was bombed during the Blitz and rebuilt to its original design in the late 1960s. Work to the building is likely to commence in early 2027 and take around 18 months to complete. 

Commenting on the NLHF award, Rosie Fraser, Chief Executive said:

“We’re delighted that we’ve received this support thanks to National Lottery players. This is a huge step-forward for the organisation and we are working towards making the building fit for purpose for our players, audiences and visitors.  We wish to embed the building and our music programmes in the local community, working with local schools and community groups to create a vibrant cultural venue and by providing meaningful training and volunteering opportunities”. 

Stuart McLeod, Director England - London & South at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said:

“We are delighted to give our initial support to transform Sinfonia Smith Square Hall into a dynamic cultural hub for the community. This Grade I listed building has seen many uses over its long history, most recently as a concert hall and new home of Southbank Sinfonia. As the UK’s largest funder of heritage, we need to support these historic buildings in adapting and regenerating and this project is a great example of this. We look forward to working with the team to progress their plans to apply for a full grant at a later date.”

Iron Duke, Great Yarmouth reaches major milestone

The Iron Duke restoration project has reached a major milestone with the submission of the final details of the proposed restoration to The National Lottery Heritage Fund and applications for both planning permission and listed building consent.

The first stage application to The Heritage Fund was approved in January 2023 and since then Great Yarmouth Preservation Trust and commercial partners Zaks have worked with Burrell Foley Fischer and a team of consultants and other experts to develop the project to the point where, with Heritage Fund approval, the construction phase can begin.

The plans will see the stunning art deco building fully and faithfully restored back to how it would have originally looked in its heyday as a beacon of 1930’s modernity.

On the ground floor Zaks will create a pub in one of the two original bars serving local beers from Lacons Brewery and cocktails with a nod to the 1930’s period. The other bar will become a restaurant where food will be cooked in view of the customers. Both bars will have an art deco aesthetic which has been developed through researching the historic archives and input from conservation paint consultants.

In the past the first floor provided accommodation for the pub manager this will be repurposed to create two holiday flats helping to ensure that the investment by the Heritage Fund, Great Yarmouth Preservation Trust and Zaks will allow a long term viable solution to the currently vacant building. The area around the building will be carefully landscaped and designs will allow access for all.

It is hoped that if the stage two submission is approved work on site will begin early in 2025 aiming for a grand opening in the spring of 2026.

Bernard Williamson, Chair GYPT, said:

“This is an extraordinarily exciting project which will see a fascinating and beautiful building brought back to life. It has taken a while to reach this point but the Preservation Trust and Zaks have been careful to ensure that the correct team of professionals and consultants with the level of expertise needed for a project of this complexity were drawn together to bring a successful outcome.

The robust and thorough approach to the development period has left no stone unturned there have been extensive below ground surveys, historic paint analysis, even unexploded bomb surveys. All this work together with the sensitive architectural design work and business planning will help get the building restored and back in use.” 

Ian Hacon, Zaks, commented: 

“We are really excited to see the Iron Duke reach this major milestone. Assuming the bid is successful, we can’t wait to get in there and start serving lovely food and drink to the people of Great Yarmouth and beyond.”

In addition to the construction and restoration work there will be a range of opportunities for the people to become involved with the project, these include learning traditional building skills, an ongoing photography recording project, workshops centred around food and cooking with an emphasis on local and low cost, a painting scheme to create murals for the hoardings around the site depicting the history of the building and much more.

The Iron Duke prior to restoration

Councillor Carl Smith, leader of GYBC said:

“We are delighted that the proposals for breathing new life into the Iron Duke have reached this stage. The pub is a key landmark in Great Yarmouth and the council has been pleased to lend its support to GYPT as it worked with heritage partners on such an ambitious vision for the future of the building. We hope the restoration of the pub will once more see residents and visitors able to enjoy and appreciate the Iron Duke.’’

Remodelling of Malvern Theatres receives Planning Permission

Designs for the remodelling of the Malvern Theatres, developed by Burrell Foley Fischer working with the theatre and Malvern Hills District Council, have been granted Planning Permission. The ambitious project, which has received funding of £20million from the UK Government’s Levelling Up Fund, will aim to deliver a world-class cultural facility within the Malvern Hills District.

In the report presented to the Planning Committee it was noted that Historic England had commented that:

“It is clear that the proposal is likely to bring about considerable public benefits. The works present a number of positive opportunities. This includes integrating the building’s many phases, and re-enforcing its relationship with Priory Park; an important part of the Great Malvern Conservation Area and setting of the Grade II* listed Council House.”

The project provides a significant opportunity to:

• Increase access to Arts and Culture for the wider community in Malvern and expand on the success of the current theatre;

• Improve the physical connection between Malvern Theatres and the adjacent Priory Park;

• Improve the internal wheelchair access to the Forum theatre for Performers, including wheelchair accessible dressing facilities;

• Develop casual performance opportunities in the park with an amphitheatre.

The project comprises an extension to the existing theatre to provide:

• New studios –  Studio Two will be flexible, with a significant proportion of programming to be flat floor for workshops and classes as well as rehearsal for transfer to the Festival or Forum stages. Retractable seating with good sight lines for a range of performance including live music, dance and screenings will be provided. This medium capacity supports use for community and smaller shows without occupying the much larger Forum or Festival spaces. Additional spaces, Studios Three and Four, will be used for workshops and classes. They will be flexibly connected and can also double up for dressing space for large casts.

• Dressing Rooms – the existing poor quality dressing room block is to be demolished and replaced. Connectivity will allow the dressing rooms to be used from either the Forum Theatre or the new studios for flexibility and to minimise redundancy. Wheelchair performers will have stage level access and compliant sanitary facilities for the first time.

• Alterations to the Forum to provide a level access stage and improved seating.

• Recording studio for 4 people to enhance the existing offer;

• Improved get in - the existing Forum get in is awkward across split levels. The new get in will have a covered entrance area and wider doors with a scene store/workshop;

• Office space for additional staff;

• Upgrading to the park entrance with re-profiled external stairs and handrails and an internal lift. A new vestibule will be provided to manage heat loss and replace the ‘winter’ entrance;

• External amphitheatre adjacent to the steps as a new public facility for casual performance;

• Improving the relationship with the park with new planting areas and sheltered seating;

• New mechanical and electrical plant with heat recovery and PV cells.

The project will significantly widen access to culture for the local population, as well as the wider sub-region, with additional people able to participate in an accessible programme of drama, dance, fitness, musical and educational provision. As well as increasing overall reach and audience size, the project particularly targets those currently less able to access culture and its wellbeing and educational benefits. The newly accessible facilities will enable increased participation by physically and mentally disabled people, equalising access to the Theatres’ main commercial offer as well as its ‘Take Part’ programme of tailored events to meet audience-specific needs.

This nationally significant project will act as a key economic driver for the region, creating new jobs and a further indirect employment opportunities. It will transform visitor numbers supporting the vitality and vibrancy of Great Malvern town centre and the wider visitor offer, which is key to the District’s economic prosperity.

From Blueprints to Legacy on National Engineering Day

A striking new statue of a Macclesfield-based woman engineer has been unveiled at the Royal Academy of Engineering to mark National Engineering Day 2024. The vibrant, modern design depicts manufacturing engineer Alice Kan and has been specially designed by visual artist and designer Kelly Anna.

Visitors to the new Engineering Role Model statue will also be able to experience the innovative garden entrance to the building, designed by Burrell Foley Fischer, in which the statue sits. Built in 2011 by a group of young engineering apprentices from Babcock International Group, the ‘S’-shaped bridge fuses engineering, art and architecture to create an elegant walkway.

Some of those apprentices, now working as engineers with Babcock, revisited the Academy to view Kelly Anna’s statue to see how their sinuous bridge has taken its place in the John Browne garden, named after Past President of the Academy Lord Browne of Madingley FREng FRS.

Babcock Chief People Officer Louise Atkinson (L) and vaccine manufacturing engineer Alice Kan. Credit: Babcock

The garden entrance was created as part of BFFs 2011 remodelling of the Academy’s Listed Grade I headquarters. The interiors had been substantially altered by successive owners over its history and suffered bomb damage during the Second World War and severe fire damage in 1989. BFF’s refurbishment removed unsympathetic 20th Century alterations and reinstated the scale and integrity of the principal rooms.  The new sinuous bridge, provides a single accessible entrance through No 3 Carlton House Terrace for all visitors to the Forum, rising gradually across the forecourt to make up the level difference between the pavements and reception. 

The design of the bridge was inspired by a winding picturesque garden path envisaged, but never built, for the premises by the 19th century architect Decimus Burton. It rises gradually to make up the level difference from the pavement to the entrance and is framed by a striking planting scheme designed by Andy Sturgeon, multiple Gold Medal winner at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

A dozen engineering apprentices and technicians, then aged 17-20, under the project management of Babcock’s Director of Operations, Marine, Joe Doogan, took a complex and novel design by architects Burrell Foley Fischer and constructed the seven tonne bridge that is now as much a landmark as the Grade 1 listed building it adjoins.

The garden entrance in 2011

Kelly Anna’s sculpture of Alice Kan will be on display at the Academy from 13 until 20 November. Alice, based in Macclesfield, played a pivotal role in the manufacture of the COVID-19 vaccine and is now working on vaccines for Ebola. She was nominated as the Academy’s ‘Engineering Role Model’ through a public vote and selected from over 150 nominations.

Dr Hayaatun Sillem CBE, Chief Executive of the Royal Academy of Engineering, says:

“Having someone to look up to is cited as a key reason why young people pursue a particular passion or career. But with only 15.7% women and 12.4% minority ethnic representation in UK engineering, it's crucial that we recruit new engineers from all parts of society to build a more inclusive future.

 “That is why for this year’s National Engineering Day we have commissioned an exciting new statue of manufacturing engineer Alice Kan to challenge stereotypes and get people talking about contemporary engineers and the fascinating work they do. We are delighted to have the support of Babcock International, who are an exemplar in training and development of their young engineers, and it’s great to welcome some of their former apprentices to the Academy today to see Kelly Anna’s striking new statue in situ on the bridge they built for us over a decade ago.”

Louise Atkinson, Chief People Officer at Babcock, commented:

“The theme of role models for this year’s National Engineering Day is such an important one, interlinked with culture and legacy. At Babcock, we have some amazing people that inspire me every day. Attracting great talent for businesses like ours is a challenge for many in the current climate, but once they join us, they tend to stay. The fact that this group of apprentices have stayed with Babcock and have built their careers here is testament to that. So today is a real celebration not just of role models, but the mentors that helped them and help make the world a better place for us all.”

The garden entrance in 2011

Brighton University moves into refurbished Falmer Campus

A major redevelopment of the university's Falmer campus has now been completed, enabling courses which had previously been taught more than 20 miles away in Eastbourne to relocate to Brighton from this September. The work to improve and expand Falmer campus – home to the university’s School of Education, Sport and Health Sciences – has included the creation of world-class facilities to support teaching, learning and research. Burrell Foley Fischer were the Masterplanners and Architects for the project.

Each year, almost 1,000 University of Brighton students begin their careers in the NHS and wider health sector after graduating. New facilities at Falmer have been designed to replicate the professional spaces in which Brighton students will work in their future careers, with bespoke labs and teaching facilities for students studying subjects including paramedic science, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, nursing, midwifery, and sports and exercise science.

These facilities include a range of equipment to support both teaching and research and will be used by students, staff and in collaboration with partners. They include a Gait Analysis track with 3D motion analysis camera technology, laboratories measuring and predicting the impact of extreme environmental conditions on the human body, blood analysis facilities, an occupational therapy daily living suite, simulated hospital wards and a 360-degree virtual reality simulation suite.

The Falmer campus also now offers improved sport and leisure opportunities for students, staff and the local community following the creation of the new Brighton Sport & Health Complex on the site of the former Virgin Active health club. Facilities on offer include dance and spin studios, football and rugby pitches, netball, badminton, volleyball, basketball and tennis courts, gymnastics area, an indoor swimming pool and large gym and fitness suite.

Professor Andrew Lloyd, Interim Vice-Chancellor of the University of Brighton, said:

“The completion of this major investment programme at the Falmer campus is the latest part of our long-term strategy to provide the best possible experience for our students. The Falmer campus is now one of the region’s biggest hubs for sport and health learning, teaching and research, alongside our already outstanding teacher training provision. Working with our partners in the education and health sectors, we’re creating the next generation of public sector professionals that our city and our region needs and helping solve global challenges through our ground-breaking research.”

Dr Angela Glynn, Dean of the School of Education, Sport and Health Sciences, said:

“Our improved Falmer campus now brings together all our education, sport and health courses on one amazing site. The facilities on offer provide a wide range of exciting opportunities for our students to study and learn through hands-on activities and simulations that replicate what they will encounter in the world of work. These new facilities are already providing a major boost to our students’ university experience and will equip our graduates with the skills, knowledge, and opportunities they need to thrive in their future careers.”

BFF have been assisting the University with strategic planning since 2019, designing the masterplans for the future developments of their four campuses based on extensive space utilisation studies. This masterplan is being implemented in phases, the first of which focused on the relocation of key teaching and learning activities to the Moulescoomb Campus for the School of Humanities and Social Science and was completed in 2023.

York Guildhall shortlisted for National 2024 RTPI Award for Excellence in Planning

The restoration and remodelling of the Grade I, II* and II Listed York Guildhall is a Finalist in the 2024 RTPI National Awards for Planning Excellence. It is shortlisted in the Excellence in Planning for Heritage and Culture category, which “recognises projects that drive economic success and promote a sustainable and thriving future for our communities”.

York Guildhall is one of the city’s most significant heritage assets dating from the 15th century, with a prominent position on the north bank of the River Ouse. When City of York Council resolved to move out of the Guildhall in January 2012 securing an appropriate, sustainable and beneficial future use for the riverside complex which had been the seat of city governance for over 600 years became a key concern for the city. A venue was envisaged to support and nurture the expansion of York’s vibrant businesses.

There was a core requirement for modern flexible office space and the associated provision of multipurpose space to suit a variety of potential uses such as co-working/ conferencing/ meeting and events and exhibition space. The complex also needed to accommodate elements of commercial space, including a restaurant and cafe bar, to provide support to the core uses and assist financial sustainability.

The existing buildings were on the Heritage at Risk register and the tower in particular needed significant stabilisation works. The Guildhall itself needed to be comprehensively refurbished to improve its usability; specifically including new heating and electrical services. The Guildhall forms one of the key tourist views in York, so the new element had to be sensitive to its surroundings, and planners wanted noise and visual impact to neighbours kept to a minimum.

Burrell Foley Fischer’s scheme, through sensitive planning and an understanding of the balance between new and existing, volume and space, has met the Council’s brief. A comprehensive refurbishment of the existing buildings, together with strategic new build interventions has re-purposed the complex for a new sustainable use.

The site contains a series of intimate, linked public spaces, connected by small “ginells” and the new build elements include the continuation of this language, to create a new riverside courtyard / garden across two levels of river front terraces, while improving public access and the general quality of the public realm throughout the complex.

The winners will be announced at a ceremony in London next month.

Plans to secure the future of Widford Church

The PCC of St John the Baptist Church Widford are consulting on plans, developed in collaboration with Burrell Foley Fischer, to modernise part of the church building. Their aim is that relatively minor internal alterations to the building, will result in huge improvements in the way in which the church is currently perceived and used by the local community and congregation. They envisage that the remodelled building will be used to host new community groups for the village, as well as resurrect some that have been lost over the years.

St John the Baptist is a largely 14th Century church, incorporating fabric and arch fragments of early 12th Century, and a 15th Century tower. It is Grade II* listed. The building is of flint and stone construction in tile Decorated and Perpendicular styles. It consists of Chancel, Nave, South Porch and an embattled Western Tower of Transition Norman date. The spire is made of copper and was rebuilt in 1888 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s golden jubilee. The tiled wagon roof of the nave and chancel dates from 1868 when it replaced a lower and flatter original roof.

The PCC’s plans include creating a community café for simply catching up with friends or meeting up with bereavement groups, youth groups, and mothers and toddlers, to name just a few. There is also the aim to offer a permanent home for the incredible village archive, currently being stored in somebody’s loft, to enable this fascinating collection of historical documents to become more accessible to all ages.

The completed project will:

• Significantly open up and reveal the space at the back of the church both visually and in terms of use.

• Create a safer, more spacious and welcoming well-lit area for people to gather at the back of church which can then be used for a multiple of different uses.

• Give a better appreciation and view of the roof and tower arch because the beam that is currently directly in front of the tower will be removed to allow the head-height required for an access to the bellringing gallery floor.

• Provide a bellringing floor constructed as a simple plain structure with a minimal clear glass balustrade. The highly regarded bellringing team and the bellringing function in the church will become a more visible feature and attribute.

• Create a fully accessible space with a disabled persons toilet, a kitchenette/ servery for light refreshments, a visitors cloaks cupboard, a new archive room with material for exhibitions and working.

• Provide a new level and adequate wheelchair route leading from the existing path to the tower door.

• Provide an enhanced area for musical events (accompanied by the very fine organ), performance and exhibition events.

• Provide the perfect conditions required to house the Widford Archive on a permanent loan basis.

Revealing their plans the PCC said:

“This is the biggest project Widford church has undertaken since 1868, and there’s a good reason. If we don’t act now, within the next 10 years the congregation and regular donors simply won’t be able to keep up the church’s annual running costs. Therefore it’s really important that we act now to ensure our beautiful, historical church is still here, in every capacity, for future generations to enjoy too.”

Helen Grassly to address the 2024 Theatres Trust conference

The Theatres Trust have invited Helen Grassly, the Burrell Foley Fischer (BFF) Project Director for many of the practice’s theatre projects, to address their 2024 conference. Helen will be participating in the ever-popular Capital Lightning Round, which allows delegates to delve into recent and current theatre capital projects which aim to drive their theatres beyond mere resilience towards positive transformation.

The Theatres Trust is the national advice and advocacy body for the UK’s theatres, supporting all forms of theatres, whether old or new, commercial, subsidised or community-run. They protect theatres and champion the future of live performance by advising and supporting the nation’s theatres to develop best practice in design and management following the four principles of resilience, environmental sustainability, inclusivity and placemaking. The theme of this year’s conference is “Making Theatres Thrive”. Their stated aims for the event are:

“People, places and purpose are at the heart of our theatres. This year’s conference looks at how they are enablers in Making Theatres Thrive.

As we emerge post-pandemic into new social, economic, environmental contexts and reimagined places, we need to re-examine how theatres can reinforce their role in placemaking, contributing to vibrant and liveable communities and creating a resilient future for all. We will look at cultural placemaking with senior local government officials who develop the big picture and theatres will share how they are playing a more central civic as well as cultural role.

The conference recognises the dynamics and nuances at play in the shifting contexts in which theatres operate. It will showcase alternative and flexible business and operating models and what this might practically mean for resilience for theatres large and small.”

Helen will be presenting the designs for the restoration and remodelling of the Scala Theatre, a former 1920s cinema, and the connected Grade II listed Corn Exchange in Worcester, to form a new multi-use Arts Centre for the City. The venue’s aim is to bring people together and make the city a more creative and inspiring place to live. Scala will host live events alongside independent film, visual arts, and a wide range of participation-based creative activities, as well as a programme of educational outreach and talent development. Helen will discuss how BFF worked with the client, Worcester City Council, and a creative consortium, made up of a number of local arts organisations, to develop the plans.

Helen Grassly is a Director of Burrell Foley Fischer. Her expertise is in delivering the highest quality projects for the arts sector, as well as a specialism in the creative refurbishment of existing buildings. She has a passion for the detailed making of buildings, particularly in sensitive historic contexts. Helen was the director responsible for BFF’s remodelling of the Grade II* Hall for Cornwall, including a new 1,200-seat auditorium. She is currently designing a new theatre for Andover and the remodelling of Malvern Theatres.

Faye Davies to address the National Heritage Ironwork Group Conference

The National Heritage Ironwork Group (NHIG) have invited Faye Davies, the Burrell Foley Fischer (BFF) Project Director for the restoration of Great Yarmouth Winter Gardens, to address their 2024 Conference. Faye will be giving a “10 minutes heroes” presentation on the designs for returning the magnificent cast-iron seaside structure to a year-round attraction.

The NHIG is a volunteer-run organisation which is dedicated to raising awareness and understanding of ironwork, provides a hub for historic ironwork information and is the nation’s only organisation focused solely on historic ironwork. The theme of this year’s conference is “Tradition and Innovation – The Evolution of Craftmanship in Ironwork Conservation”. Their stated aims for the event are:

“As 21st century ironwork conservators, we have more options available to us than ever before. But in a field where each project presents new and unique challenges, how do we know which materials & techniques are appropriate for the job?

Traditional skills are passed on with the benefit of being tried and tested, but craftsmanship is a fluid process, naturally evolving as new technologies emerge. So are the ‘old ways’ always the best? Or can new technologies offer viable alternatives? What are the parameters when using modern materials with historic fabric? When is it appropriate and when inappropriate?”

The last survivor of a British seaside tradition, the Grade II* Winter Gardens located on Great Yarmouth’s ‘golden mile’ is currently unused, in a poor state of repair and on Historic England’s Heritage at Risk Register. Following restoration, this building of national significance will once again become a colourful and animated People’s Palace at the heart of the town’s life, economy, and heritage.

The conference presentation will explain the developing designs and how the refurbishment will adhere to high conservation standards, ensuring the historic cast/wrought frame is carefully restored together with high quality materials for new timber screens and glazing. The historic structure will be repainted in its original off-white colour, while new materials such as timber, terracotta and terrazzo will complement the historic elements, maintaining a cohesive yet modern aesthetic. The restored frame, paired with contemporary interventions, are designed to create a calm backdrop for vibrant planting and flexible public spaces.

Faye Davies is a Specialist Conservation Architect on the RIBA Register of Conservation Architects and has over 20 years’ experience of the restoration and adaptation of historic fabric. She has a Post Graduate Diploma in Building Conservation from the Architectural Association, where her thesis was on the life and works of Victorian engineer Eugenius Birch, the eminent and most prolific cast/wrought iron pier designer.

Faye has developed a specialism in Iron Framed C19th structures and has been actively researching their conservation and adaptation for sustainable uses throughout her career. Her projects have included plans for the restoration and reconstruction of the sole surviving complete kiosk, from the original 1866 Brighton West Pier, the world’s oldest surviving pleasure pier building, and she is currently working with the National Trust on options for the restoration of the magnificent Victorian Orchard House at Cragside in Northumberland.

Ravenscourt Park Tea House wins the 2024 Tom Ryland Award for Conservation

The restoration of the Ravenscourt Park Tea House in Hammersmith has won the 2024 Tom Ryland Award for Conservation, presented by the Hammersmith Society. Two centuries old and Grade II listed, the building, which was on Historic England’s Buildings at Risk Register, has gained a new roof as well as modern, fully accessible public toilets as part of the sensitive restoration and refurbishment.

The Hammersmith Society’s annual awards scheme is designed to recognise projects that have made a positive and beneficial contribution to the borough’s townscape. They can be a new building, an imaginative renovation or adaptation of an old building, the creation or improvement of a green open space, a well-designed streetscape, an improved shopfront, or the removal of an eyesore.

The Tea House at Ravenscourt Park was formerly the eastern wing of the original stable block that formed part of the overall Ravenscourt Park Estate and dates from the eighteenth century with various later extensions. The building was converted to a refreshment room in the late nineteenth century and the ground floor has been running as a well-loved and popular café. The building provides a focus for Ravenscourt Park and much needed amenities in the form of the café and public conveniences.

The building had endured a long period of deterioration, resulting in damage to the roof and external fabric in many areas both externally and internally. As well as a new roof in the main building, and new loos, many of the roof timbers and joists have been restored or replaced, together with repairs to the drainage, guttering, windows and doors.

The much-needed programme of improvements has secured the building’s future and ensured it provides many more years of service where patrons can visit and use the building as a quality tearoom. The Friends of Ravenscourt Park have welcomed the restoration of the tea house.

The building has been reopened as The Paddenswick Tea Gardens Café, serving artisan coffee and hot drinks, bakery, ice cream and a delicious hot food brunch and lunch dishes. Its heritage significance is very much appreciated by local people and, following these restoration works, it is once again a popular place of attraction for people to visit and cherish.

New lighting scheme for St Alphege Church Solihull revealed to Heritage Open Day visitors

Heritage Open Day visitors were amongst the first to see the full glory of St Alphege Church in Solihull, better revealed by the new lighting scheme installed as part of a series of planned improvements being led by Burrell Foley Fischer.

Described as “England’s largest festival of history and culture” every September thousands of volunteers across England organise events for Heritage Open Days. It provides the chance to see hidden places and try out new experiences – all of which are free to explore. St Alphege Church joined the 2024 event and welcomed visitors throughout the day.

St. Alphege Church, named for the Archbishop of Canterbury martyred by the Danes in 1012, is an 800 year old building in the heart of Solihull. The church has architecture from the Early Thirteenth to the Sixteenth Centuries, including an unusual two-storey chapel, a chantry above an unspoilt crypt chapel where the priest lived, which is complete with fireplace and easily barred Medieval door. There is also some fine Nineteenth and Twentieth Century stained-glass, but sadly only fragments of the medieval glass and wall-paintings survive.

Given its history and unique position, as very much Solihull’s civic parish church, the PCC launched ‘Project Turnaround’ focusing on unlocking the untapped potential. The project is centred on Mission, and how the church connects with its wider community, addressing the basic expectations of a welcoming, comfortable and hospitable environment. Phase I, the new lighting project, working with Bruce Kirk of CBG Consultants as the main lighting designer, was completed earlier this summer. Throughout the church we have introduced a new, environmentally friendly, lighting scheme which allows much more opportunity to control the space’s visual qualities and better reveal its magnificent architecture.

The designs for Phase II, the remodelling of the interior along with the narthex, were recently submitted for DAC approval. BFF have been integral to both the development of the vision behind the project and the designed response to support this, bringing the church building up to standard to support its 21st century role.

‘Tag A Tile’ at Union Chapel Sunday School Hall

Visitors to the 2024 Union Chapel Open Day were given the chance to be a part of history, by making their mark on a roof tile that will be installed on the Sunday School Hall. The ‘Tag A Tile’ event was an opportunity to be a permanent part of Union Chapel's building, in return for a donation to support their Sunday School Stories Project renovations and community activity programme.

Supporters were able to write a message or picture on a donated Keymer roof tile that will be installed on the Grade II* listed Sunday School Hall, during the essential works that will save the building and bring it back to the community.

The Union Chapel is an architectural treasure that’s home to a working church, an award-winning venue, a unique organ and The Margins Project for those homeless and in crisis in London. The Chapel is a Victorian brick complex of buildings, which includes the Grade I listed Tower and Chapel, the separately Grade II* Listed Sunday School, Halls, Committee room building and the recently repurposed Vestry block.

The Sunday School Stories project is the next phase in the masterplan, produced by BFF, for its conservation and ongoing development, following extensive community and stakeholder consultation. The project will improve both the environmental performance of, and access to, the building. Essential works will mean the unique architecture and heritage of the building will be preserved and brought back to life for the community to use and for future generations.

Inside, the Hall is a large, airy, double height space with a three-sided wrap-around wrought iron balcony. The balcony is complete with original study booths and library. It is a space that combines simple grandeur and practicality – it was intended to cater for a wide range of activities, including classes for up to 180 children and families, sports, tea parties and bazaars.

The project will open up this little seen room, and its collection of records, books, artefacts and memorabilia from the last 200 years, for dedicated community use, cultural activity, ideas sharing and participative events – giving future generations the chance to create new stories of their own.

The Sunday School has a huge undocumented archive. The archive is an untapped treasure trove of stories. It tells the tales of nonconformists and their 100-year journey from persecuted minority to being part of the establishment and of Union Chapel’s unique history as one of the UK’s most respected music venues. The project will transform the currently decaying, inaccessible collection into a restored and fully catalogued archive for the first time inviting the community to discover the everyday life at Union Chapel with insights into the lives of real local people and their ambitions for a better world.

Restoration of Great Yarmouth Winter Gardens wins AJ Retrofit Award

The restoration of the Grade II* Winter Gardens in Great Yarmouth, being led by BFF Architects, has won an AJ Retrofit Award. It was the winner of the “Future Reuse” category, which celebrates “planned and future projects on the drawing board, in particular those looking to push the envelope in terms of retrofit and reuse”.

The AJ reported that:

“The AJ Retrofit & Reuse Awards celebrate architectural expertise and ingenuity in the physical and environmental adaptation and upgrade of buildings, and the reuse of building materials and structure in response to the climate emergency and changing requirements of use.

The winning projects in the AJ’s new categories for 2024 positively demonstrate the strength of the industry to advocate for change and to prioritise sensitive adaptions and minimal interventions over demolition and new build.”

Commenting on the Winter Gardens success, the judges said:

“On a project as technically challenging as this, it’s no small achievement to integrate all the different layers and reimagine it for the next generation. The economic and the social and the circularity all go hand-in-hand.”

The last survivor of a British seaside tradition, the Grade II* Winter Gardens is currently unused, in a poor state of repair and on Historic England’s Heritage at Risk Register. Following restoration, this building of national significance will once again become a colourful and animated People’s Palace at the heart of the town’s life, economy, and heritage.

The project will return the magnificent cast-iron structure to a year-round attraction; a flexible entertainment, activity & events, education and community space, with food and beverage.

The new scheme aims to be as sustainable as possible, whilst respecting the historic fabric, and has implemented a 'Net Zero Carbon in Operation' strategy. Passive techniques have been developed to heat, cool and ventilate the space with the minimal use of energy and resources.

The planting proposal, with species referring to the Victorian planting and reflecting the town’s former trading routes, is sensitive to the need to balance a comfortable environment for people with a suitable environment for plants. New external landscaping and public seating will be provided.

The building will include an event space with stage and seating; restaurant and bar; and a multi-purpose activity space. An integrated Interpretation Strategy will encourage engagement with heritage, biodiversity, sustainability, climate adaptation and future resilience.

The restoration has been made possible thanks to funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, combined with investment from the Government’s Town Deal Fund. It is one of five successful NLHF Heritage Horizon Awards projects, aimed at ambitious, innovative and transformational schemes that will revolutionise UK heritage. The final stages of detailed design are now underway ahead of the restoration work, with the building due to reopen to the public in 2027.

Helen Grassly amongst the judges for the 2024 AJ Retrofit Awards

Helen Grassly is one of the judges for the 2024 AJ Retrofit and Reuse Awards. The Awards, celebrate architectural expertise and ingenuity in the physical and environmental adaption and upgrade of buildings, and the reuse of building materials and structure in response to the climate emergency and changing requirements of use.

Helen was a judge in the Conservation and Historic, up to £5m, category and will participate in live judging of the Conservation and Historic, £5m and over, taking place at the AJ Retrofit Live Conference. Helen’s fellow judges will be Julian Harrap, founder Julian Harrap Architects, and Sela-Jaymes Taylor, heritage and conservation lead at Gort Scott. Robert Wilson, architecture editor, at The Architects’ Journal will moderate.

Helen is a Director of Burrell Foley Fischer Architects, who have delivered the highest quality projects for the arts, education and heritage sectors for 40 years. Throughout her career, she has developed her design skills to unlock the potential of existing heritage and cultural buildings and find new and sustainable ways for them to contribute to their owners, their users and their communities.

Helen’s recently completed projects include the refurbishment and remodelling of the Grade II* listed Hall for Cornwall. The new, three-tiered theatre space has enabled the organisation to deliver their artistic vision and provided a new dynamic relationship between performer and audience, whilst conserving and restoring its important heritage elements bringing them into better use. She is currently designing the new Scala arts centre, a dynamic new creative destination at the heart of Worcester housed in a former 1920s cinema, and the connected Grade II listed Corn Exchange.

The winners will be announced at a Gala Dinner following the conference. Burrell Foley Fischer’s restoration of the Winter Gardens in Great Yarmouth has been shortlisted in the Future-use category which recognises “planned and future projects on the drawing board, in particular those looking to push the envelope in terms of retrofit and reuse”.

The projects shortlisted for all categories can be found here.