Plans unveiled for Worcester’s new arts centre

December 07, 2022

Draft plans have been revealed for an exciting new arts venue in the heart of Worcester city centre, and a new image of how the building could look has been released. Worcester City Council's Policy and Resources Committee will next week be asked to give its approval for a planning application for the scheme, designed by Burrell Foley Fischer, to be submitted.

The ambitious proposals will transform the Angel Place area, attracting world-class arts, music, and comedy acts to the Worcester, as well as giving a much-needed boost to local businesses. Subject to agreement of a business plan early next year, the eagerly anticipated arts centre – a revival of the historic Scala Theatre, Worcester's original 1920s cinema – will be managed by Worcester Theatres.

Councillor Marjory Bisset, Chair of the Policy and Resources Committee, said:

"This is an exciting project that will enhance the local cultural and entertainment offering, and will attract new and larger audiences to our city. I very much hope that the committee will approve the submission of the plans for this new arts centre."

Sarah-Jane Morgan, Chief Executive of Worcester Theatres, said:

"The arts scene in Worcester is thriving and we support all developments that will allow both our organisation and our associates in the city to thrive and build on that success. The planned venue will allow opportunities for new, enhanced and varied programming, and will attract different performers and theatre companies to Worcester. We look forward to welcoming more diverse arts and artists to the city, as well as providing improved facilities for existing companies and partners."

Community arts groups have already contributed to design plans for the Scala, suggesting several ideas that were adopted by the architects.

If the committee agrees to the submission of the planning application, residents and other interested parties will be able to have their say on the scheme at a public consultation event at the Guildhall on Wednesday December 14. The report to the committee meeting on 13 December notes that the rising costs of construction have led to a scaling down of the plans for the arts centre, with a studio theatre no longer included.

The arts centre is part of the City Council's plans for investing the £17.9 million awarded from the Government's Future High Streets Fund. Because of the rising costs, the committee report notes that the Council has requested permission from the Government to reallocate how it plans to spend that money, to increase funding for the Scala and Corn Exchange developments.

Early next year the Policy & Resources Committee will also be asked to approve a business plan under which Worcester Theatres would take on the running of the new arts centre, alongside their existing venues of Huntingdon Hall and the Swan Theatre, the latter being used to meet the needs of community theatre groups.

Depot Lewes wins Green Screen Award

November 25, 2022

Depot a community cinema for the town of Lewes, designed by Burrell Foley Fischer, has won the Green Screen Award at the 2022 Big Screen Awards. Sustainability was built into the design and the venue has taken that forward with their “aim to be an exemplar of sustainable business both as a local venue and in the wider cinema industry”. Their achievements have been recognised by the leading British Film Industry magazine at their annual awards.

The new cinema was built on the site of the old Harvey’s Brewery depot. It shows feature and independent art-house films, as well as hosting events, exhibitions and festivals, and provides facilities for film education and community activities. BFF’s design approach was to retain the much-loved existing warehouse building, a popular landmark in a prominent location by the station and insert three new cinema screens. A modern glazed foyer houses the box office, café/bar, meeting and film education facilities: and provides a contemporary setting against the former industrial building.

Reflecting the historic site layout of orchards and meadows, the tarmacked yard has been landscaped to provide a new public realm; a ‘Town Square’ for Lewes. With native plant species, a small orchard and wildflower meadow maintained by volunteers, it is open all day and used for outdoor events and screenings. The café/bar is open throughout the day welcoming all sectors of the community and visitors to Lewes and uses produce grown in the on-site orchard.

Extensive consultation with local access groups ensured a welcoming and accessible facility for people of all abilities. The Depot is now a local landmark, achieving occupancy levels well beyond the original business case and there has been a noticeable increase in other independent businesses opening locally. Sustainability was embedded into the design from the beginning: local building materials; high thermal performance; a Ground Source Heat Pump; solar panels and an extensive green roof. The cinema has developed a green-focussed management strategy with careful control of procurement and waste and consequently the building became carbon-neutral in 2019.

The Depot responds to the unique qualities of the South Downs National Park and is authentic to Lewes. We worked with a local expert flint subcontractor to push the boundaries of flint craftsmanship within the South Downs with the knapped flint entrance portico and the visible roofscape featuring flint paving, as well a green roof planted with chalk loving plants all found in the SDNP.

Sustainability was built into the development project by:

Retention of the existing masonry to form the massive acoustic boxes of the cinema screens;
Use of local materials in construction: chestnut timber, downland flint;
Foundation design to accommodate flooding in the River Ouse risk area;
Incorporation of on-site energy generation: PV cells, ground source heat pumps;
Increase of biodiversity through a green roof planted with local downland species;
Replacement of the tarmac delivery yard with a community garden space incorporating local species planting and food production (fruit trees/bushes).

The cinema is also run to deliver sustainability goals through their operational policies, including:

Localism in procurement;
No non-recyclable waste;
Support for green transport;
Garden training for volunteer network.

York Guildhall receives Yorkshire Post Excellence in Business Award

November 24, 2022

The accolade of Commercial Development of the Year was presented at the 2022 Yorkshire Post Excellence in Business Awards to the restoration and remodelling of the Medieval York Guildhall, led by Burrell Foley Fischer. The award citation reads:

“While up against some truly impressive competition in this category, judges believed The Guildhall project was a deserving winner for the way in which a landmark Yorkshire building has been given a new lease of life that will provide it with an exciting future for generations to come.”

The Guildhall complex is owned by City of York Council and is made up of Grade I, II* and II listed buildings built around a large 15th-century Guild Hall. The refurbishment and remodelling has provided a world class venue, supporting and nurturing the expansion of York’s vibrant creative businesses; combining events and exhibition space with state-of-the-art collaboration and co-working facilities in the heart of a historic and creative city, securing a sustainable future for one of its most iconic buildings.

The main hall suffered significant bomb damage during the second world war and since its reopening in 1960 had received only reactive repairs, putting the building at risk. The project has secured the future of the Guildhall complex, through the delivery of an economically viable and sustainable scheme. It has delivered a comprehensive (once in 100 years) refurbishment of the complex, 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. A Water Source Heat Pump provides sustainable green energy from the adjacent River Ouse, lowering running costs and reducing carbon emissions.

The works were completed successfully despite the challenges of the covid-19 pandemic and significant engineering challenges given the buildings unique location and heritage. The River Ouse was used to transport equipment and materials to site to avoid construction traffic in York’s narrow historic city centre streets.

The University of York, through York Science Park Ltd, a partnership between the University and City of York Council, has taken a long-term lease on the historic buildings, to create a hub for business, enterprise and events. The new space is enabling the University to bring the innovation and support it offers to local business and enterprise into the heart of York, driving inclusive and sustainable growth in the City as it recovers from the pandemic.

Union Chapel Sunday School Stories project to receive National Lottery funding

October 13, 2022

Union Chapel has been awarded a grant of £1,054,500 from The National Lottery Heritage Fund for their Sunday School Stories project. This three-year project will restore the Grade II* listed Sunday School building and create an archive of some of the greatest moments in Union Chapel’s history, alongside an engaging activity programme, co-created with and for 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.

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 buildings were in danger of collapse in the 80’s when a huge program of repairs averted the imminent danger. However, it is still on the Heritage at Risk Register, Category C. 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.

Faye Davies explains the regional and national significance of the Sunday School Hall

The Sunday School has a huge undocumented archive of records, books, artefacts and memorabilia from the last 200 years. 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.

The community will be able to get involved throughout this project, whether as a volunteer to help discover lost history or by taking part in a pre-gig heritage tour. The people of Islington have been integral to the history of Union Chapel and will continue to be so to bring the Sunday School back to life. Once the project is complete, it will be returned to the community as a space that everyone can enjoy.

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

“We are delighted to support Union Chapel with their Sunday School Stories project. The restoration of the building for the community and creation of an amazing legacy through the archive is a fitting way to celebrate their 30th anniversary as a music venue. The National Lottery Heritage Fund is the UK’s largest investors in heritage. Now more than ever, investing in heritage is a top priority for us, particularly as a result of the pandemic. Thanks to National Lottery players, we can invest in projects such as this where it improves people’s lives and makes communities better places to live.”

Michael Chandler, Union Chapel Project CEO, said:

“We are very grateful to the Heritage Fund for this grant. The Sunday School Stories capital and activity programme is an incredibly exciting moment for us at Union Chapel. An opportunity for us to reflect on 30 years as a venue and a charity, and over 200 years of Nonconformist history through the Church, with an incredible role in social justice across the years. And an opportunity for us to look to the future, coming out of the last few incredibly difficult years and looking ahead at an ongoing challenging world with a revitalised commitment to culture, community, social justice and celebrating all of our rich important heritage. Creating this vital, unique space open to all - for supporting and empowering communities, for supporting upcoming talent and for creating a blueprint for genuine creative, community cocreation and change to address injustices – is vital now and for our future”

The Ope Way at Hall for Cornwall is officially opened

October 05, 2022

Hall for Cornwall, a performing arts venue in Truro housing the largest theatre in Cornwall along with a cultural hub, have officially opened their Ope Way. The ceremony was completed by the Leader of Cornwall Council, Councillor, Linda Taylor, and Chair of National Lottery Heritage Fund London and South, Taryn Nixon.

The new auditorium, named Cornwall Playhouse, is a beautiful and flexible open space on three tiered-levels, providing a new dynamic relationship between performer and audience and enabling the organisation to deliver their artistic vision. The auditorium is seen as an open space, sitting within the granite box of the original marketplace walls visible from within the theatre space.

*The auditorium is seen as an open space, sitting within the granite box of the original marketplace walls visible from within the theatre space.*

From the very beginning, an essential element of our vision for the remodelling of the venue, which includes two Listed Buildings, was the creation of an ope – the tiny opening between tightly-packed buildings often found in Cornish fishing and mining communities. Cornwall Playhouse’s own spin on this tradition, The Ope Way is their name for the area at the back of the stalls in their new theatre, which connects the Playhouse Bar (and the Boscawen Street entrance) with the Green Room Café and Husa, their creative hub, (and the Back Quay entrance). It provides a shortcut between two Truro shopping streets, or a cut-through to the box office, or simply an excuse to have a nose at what’s happening in Cornwall Playhouse on any given day.

*The official opening ceremony was completed by the Leader of Cornwall Council, Councillor Linda Taylor and the Chair of National Lottery Heritage Fund London and South, Taryn Nixon.*

Heritage is in the bones of Hall For Cornwall. Situated within one of Truro’s most important civic buildings, City Hall, the theatre has many stories to tell. Memories whisper along the Ope Way and its many, varied uses course through the granite, terrazzo and oak which shape its current incarnation as a proud and newly transformed venue for Cornwall. From jail cells, to cinemas, fashion shows to skating rinks, the hall has hosted most of Cornwall on its stage or within its walls. The team at Hall for Cornwall aims to make this rich history engaging, immersive and interactive for all ages.

From 2018 to 2021, the theatre was closed for a comprehensive redevelopment, with a three-year heritage project running alongside it. Thanks to support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Revealing City Hall peeled back the layers of history and crafted stories, commissions and creative performances to share across Cornwall’s communities.

In tandem, the theatre’s new digital heritage collection has drawn together ephemera, photography and memories from City Hall, as donated from members of the public and researched at archives including Kresen Kernow and the Royal Cornwall Museum. The 800+ item collection includes posters, prints, maps and costumes, and serves as an overview of the building’s history and the role it has played at the heart of Truro.

Taryn Nixon, Chair of National Lottery Heritage Fund London and South, offered her congratulations on:

“an ambitious & visionary achievement! Wonderful spaces for Truro and Cornwall creatives, business & learning, and now the new Ope Way linking them all.”

Birmingham Roundhouse and Hall for Cornwall win LABC Regional Awards

September 22, 2022

Two projects designed by Burrell Foley Fischer have been selected as Regional Winners in the 2022 LABC Building Excellence Awards, in the Best Public or Community Building category. The Roundhouse in Birmingham won in the West Midlands region and the Hall for Cornwall in Truro in the South West region. They are both also shortlisted finalists for the National Grand Finals, which will take place next January.

Local Authority Building Control (LABC) represents all local authority building control teams in England and Wales. Their annual Building Excellence Awards celebrate achievements in the construction industry and recognise quality in all types of building project and individual contributions in the construction industry. They reward excellent buildings, outstanding companies, and partnerships and individuals that go that extra mile.

Birmingham Roundhouse

The Roundhouse is one of Birmingham’s most interesting, and iconic, industrial heritage buildings and consequently Listed Grade II*. A pioneering partnership between the Canal & River Trust and the National Trust, with funding from the NLHF Heritage Enterprise programme, has brought it back to life through an innovative blend of heritage and enterprise. The 19th century canal-side building has been transformed into a hub from which to explore the city by foot, bike or water.

The reopened building is a thriving home to local businesses and enterprise. It includes a visitor centre, café, kayak hire, facilities for volunteers and shared working space. In addition to a permanent exhibition explaining its history, there are spaces for temporary exhibitions linked to community events and festivals.

Hall for Cornwall

Hall for Cornwall, including two Listed buildings, is a performing arts venue in Truro, housing the largest theatre in Cornwall along with a cultural hub. The new auditorium, named Cornwall Playhouse, is a beautiful and flexible open space on three tiered-levels, providing a new dynamic relationship between performer and audience and enabling the organisation to deliver their artistic vision. The auditorium is seen as an open space, sitting within the granite box of the original marketplace walls visible from within the theatre space.

The project has increased the theatre’s audience capacity and provides a more intimate atmosphere with improved sightlines and acoustics, whilst improving accessibility and conserving and restoring important heritage elements and bringing them into better use. The refurbished venue also provides a warmer welcome and improved audience experience, including new cafés and bar areas on both sides of the listed buildings and a space to change facility.

The full list of projects winning Regional Awards in the Best Public or Community Building category, can be read here.

Hall for Cornwall wins 2022 Constructing Excellence South West Award

September 09, 2022

The restoration and remodelling of Hall for Cornwall, Grade II* Listed, has won the Conservation and Regeneration Award at the 2022 Constructing Excellence South West (CESW) Awards.

The CESW awards are recognised across the South West built environment as a celebration of best practice. They are a clear demonstration of the core strength of construction in the South West and the desire and commitment to deliver buildings, housing, infrastructure, and facilities of all kinds in a collaborative and sustainable manner. The key factor is that the project, scheme, process or philosophy contributes to the South West built environment and can be celebrated as an example of best practice.

The project at Hall for Cornwall has increased the theatre’s audience capacity, and provides a more intimate atmosphere with improved sightlines and acoustics, whilst improving accessibility and conserving and restoring important heritage elements and bringing them into better use. The refurbished venue also provides a warmer welcome and improved audience experience, including new cafés and bar areas on both sides of the listed buildings and space to change facilities. Sir Tim Rice, the world-famous lyricist, described the refurbished theatre as “brilliantly reimagined”.

The new auditorium, named Cornwall Playhouse, is a beautiful and flexible open space on three-tiered levels, providing a new intimate relationship between performer and audience and enabling the organisation to deliver its artistic vision. The auditorium is seen as an open space, sitting within the granite box of the original marketplace walls visible from within the theatre space. Innovative movable shutters allow the acoustic and atmosphere to be varied for drama, classical music, comedy and rock and pop gigs.

Increased access to Arts and Culture for the community of Cornwall will result from the refurbishment of the historic buildings, together with the facilities required to support a sustainable business model for the organisation. The new Husa Hub (meaning ‘to create an illusion or dream’ in Cornish), combines the venue’s artist development programmes with a dynamic and diverse co-working space; nurturing and supporting Cornish performance artists and bringing together local and creative businesses, start-ups, artists, charities and social enterprises.

First inside image of Worcester’s proposed new arts centre revealed

September 06, 2022

The first internal image of the new arts centre being proposed for Worcester, and designed by Burrell Foley Fischer, has been released. The image shows a cross-section of what the 500-seat new auditorium could look like in the new city centre-based performance arts venue.

The arts centre is at the heart of the revamp of the northern end of the city centre, which is being delivered by Worcester City Council with the support of £17.9 million from the Government's Future High Streets Fund. It is proposed to be created within the existing Grade II Listed Corn Exchange in Angel Street and Scala building in Angel Place, returning the latter to its original purpose as one of the city's main entertainment destinations.

The new image has been published as councillors prepare to address the next stage in the ambitious plan to create a thriving new performance arts destination in Worcester. When they meet on 6 September, members of the Policy and Resources Committee will be asked to give the go-ahead for a planning application to be developed for the scheme. They will also be asked to give approval for the appointment of a construction contractor for the new arts centre, Among other decisions.

The new performance arts venue would include a 500-seat main theatre and auditorium, a 110-seat studio theatre space, eating and drinking areas, and fully accessible entrances and facilities, suitable for wheelchair-users.

Cllr James Stanley, Vice Chair of the City Council's Policy and Resources Committee, said:

"This is an important and ambitious project for Worcester, which aims to put performance and the arts back in the heart of the city centre, providing entertainment for our communities and bringing a significant boost to our city's growing status as a tourist destination.”

It is anticipated that Worcester Theatres, which currently runs the Swan Theatre and Huntingdon Hall, will take on the running of the new arts centre. Following recent stakeholder consultation events, the Council will be having further meetings with community arts organisations to discuss the future of the Swan Theatre.

Hall for Cornwall hosts BBC Proms concert

July 25, 2022

The recently refurbished Hall for Cornwall, in Truro, is today hosting a BBC Proms concert, part of the World’s Greatest Classical Music Festival. Bringing the joy of classical music to as wide an audience as possible is an integral part of the Proms’ mission. This year, for the first time ever, the Proms is taking its successful chamber music series, established in 1996, across the UK, visiting all four nations. In Truro, Alim Beisembayev will perform Scarlatti, Liszt and Chopin.

Since his victory at the 2021 Leeds International Piano Competition, this young piano virtuoso from Kazakhstan, has seen his career lift off, with critics applauding his “high-powered” playing. In this, his Proms debut, he tackles three cornerstones of the keyboard repertoire: the vivacity and wit of Scarlatti’s sonatas, the high-Romantic drama of Chopin’s expansive Third Sonata and – like a sudden volley of fireworks at the heart of the recital – three of Liszt’s spectacular Transcendental Etudes.

The refurbishment and remodelling of the Grade II* listed Hall for Cornwall has increased the theatre’s audience capacity and provides a more intimate atmosphere, with improved sightlines and acoustics, whilst conserving and restoring important heritage elements and bringing them into better use.

The new auditorium, named Cornwall Playhouse, is a beautiful, open space on three tiered-levels enabling the organisation to deliver their artistic vision and providing a new dynamic relationship between performer and audience. Originally a wide, arena-style space (good for rock but hopeless for drama), Burrell Foley Fischer have introduced circle and balcony levels and narrowed the width with new slip seats. Movable shutters allow the acoustic and atmosphere to be varied for drama, classical music, comedy and rock and pop gigs.

The new auditorium is an open space sitting within the granite box of the original marketplace walls with open edges allowing views through and across the space. The back façade of the City Hall and the Back Quay building are visible from within the theatre space. In the daytime, and during set up, these views allow glimpses into the theatre world. For comedy nights and rock and pop gigs the openness and standing positions create a lively atmosphere. For drama and classical music the shutters come down and the auditorium can be absolutely focussed on the performance.

The existing stage house is the only element of the previous theatre that remains, but all the auditorium theatre lighting positions, technical bridges, control room, dimmer rooms, forestage elevator and other technical elements and areas have been replaced as part of the new, multi-tiered auditorium. BFF worked closely with theatre consultants, Charcoalblue and their acoustic consultants to deliver this exciting project.

Variable acoustics have been introduced to enable the internal acoustic of the auditorium to be expanded from a relatively dry acoustic to suit drama, stand-up comedy and amplified music to a fully bloomed acoustic to suit orchestral music and other live acoustic events. This is achieved by adjustable banners, acoustic absorption and drapes discretely accommodated in the upper areas of the auditorium, while giant shutters enable the auditorium to openly connect with the foyer areas or completely isolated to provide a unique presentational format for the venue.

The proms concert will be broadcast live on BBC Radio 3 from 1 pm and then subsequently be available on the BBC Sounds app.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m0019cpg

Digital Aviation Technology Research Centre (DARTeC) awarded BREEAM Excellent

July 22, 2022

The new £7.5 million Digital Aviation Technology Research Centre (DARTeC) for Cranfield University, which opened in 2021, has been awarded BREEAM Excellent. The project is the first of its kind; a new build research institute creating an environment for collaboration between academics and industry partners specialising in the future of Aviation technology. Digital and sustainable technologies will be the future of aviation and DARTeC supports this cutting-edge research.

The facility provides a research environment which is protected from, and yet accessible to, a live airport that allows research at a variety of technology readiness levels. The facility consists of a central building containing a suite of digital aviation research laboratories, a partially covered ‘hangar laboratory’, a 737-400 aircraft, an intelligent movement area, and a remote air traffic control centre with conventional and advanced holographic radar systems capable of monitoring and controlling the airspace around Cranfield’s airport.

The new facility is home to a number of research groups whose needs are both diverse and changeable. A key goal was built-in adaptability to reduce the need for future modifications; this is a long term approach that is the essence of sustainability.

The aim was an exemplar project regarding energy and resources conservation, so the following principles were adopted:

Incorporation of passive design techniques
Intrinsically low energy use through optimisation of building fabric
Harnessing of local renewable energy resources
Efficient, intelligent engineering services

The campus benefits from an existing district heating network so a natural solution was to extend this to serve the new development, thus connecting to a heat source that is both low carbon and low cost.

To develop a building with intrinsically low heat requirements, the team focussed on the quality of the building envelope, targeting ultra-low U values for the building fabric and a highly sealed construction with low air leakage.

The availability of adjacent land allowed consideration of a passive approach to deliver “free” heating by installing a network of “earth tubes” to take advantage of the stability of the below ground temperature. The open surroundings also allowed use of a large ground mounted PV (photovoltaic) array that was not limited by the available space on the roof.

The design maximises natural light, with daylight penetration enhanced by full height perimeter glazing and significant areas of roof glazing. Solar gain, (and hence cooling energy), is limited by careful building orientation and use of brise soleil to critical rooms on the southern elevations. The internal lighting controls include both daylighting and occupancy sensing in all spaces.

BREEAM provides a holistic sustainability assessment framework, measuring sustainable value in a series of categories and validating this performance with third-party certification. Each of these categories addresses influential factors, including low impact design and carbon emissions reduction; design durability and resilience; adaption to climate change; and ecological value and biodiversity protection.

The MEP engineers for the project were Couch Perry Wilkes and further information about the project can be found on their website.

Planning Inspectorate throws out controversial hotel plans for Thames historic landmark

July 06, 2022

The Planning Inspectorate has rejected highly contested plans to convert and extend London’s Custom House and quayside into a luxury hotel complex. The decision follows a three year campaign led by the Georgian Group and SAVE Britain’s Heritage culminating in a public inquiry in February 2022. This was supported by John Burrell’s alternative vision of how this monumental public building, once thronged with people, can have a more public use again.

Cross Section illustrating John Burrell’s proposals

In his decision published on 30th June, Planning Inspector Mr Griffiths concluded that the plans by Cannon Capital Developments Ltd & Global Gem Hotels Ltd should be refused on heritage and planning policy grounds. He states that the hotel scheme posed a severe degree of harm to the Thameside landmark in spite of the purported public benefits of the scheme, concluding that: “The harm that would be caused to the significance of the building in producing these public benefits would be too great.”

He added that: “alterations to accommodate a viable use would lead to an unacceptable loss of significance,” and that, “If the proposal has to take the form it takes to make it viable, and that is what the evidence suggests, then the burden on the significance of the Custom House is, in my view, too great.”

Henrietta Billings, director of SAVE Britain’s Heritage, says:
“This decision paves the way for a new future for this landmark public building and quayside, one which celebrates its history and heritage, and throws open its doors to the people of London once again.

**Pictured: The Long Room in 2021, following HMRC's vacation of the Custom House (Credit: City of London)**

SAVE supported the Georgian Group who took part in the inquiry as a Rule 6 Party fighting the plans alongside the Corporation of London. Their main concern was that the proposed hotel scheme would not provide the degree and perpetuity of public access that are necessary to preserve the significance of the heritage asset which derives so greatly from its historic public use. Public access to the Custom House’s interior (including the Long Room) and to the broad Riverside Terrace is critical to securing the City Corporation’s vision for regenerating the Riverside.

SAVE published an alternative vision with architect John Burrell in October 2020 illustrating how the Custom House could be given a more public role. Included in the report is a cross section drawing by John Burrell showing the Long Room opened up for public events and new connections created between the lower floors and vast basements. New public space on the River Thames is transformed with the historic ship SS Robin moored alongside and open to visitors.

The full SAVE report entitled The Custom House by John Burrell can be downloaded here.

Customs House (Credit SAVE Britain’s Heritage)

Marcus Binney, executive president of SAVE Britain’s Heritage, says:

“Our concern from the off has been not only to find a sympathetic and lively new use for the Custom House, one of the hidden treasures of the Thames, but to secure public access in perpetuity to the magnificent river terrace. This terrace has a breath-taking view of Tower Bridge and the Pool of London and has the potential to be one of the City of London’s most attractive and sunniest public spaces, from dawn to dusk.”

York Guildhall receives conservation award at the 2022 York Design Awards

July 05, 2022

The John Shannon Conservation Award at the 2022 York Design Awards has been given to the restoration and remodelling of the Medieval York Guildhall, led by Burrell Foley Fischer.

By retaining the historic use of the council’s chamber and enhancing public access, the importance of the 600-year-old, direct relationship between the city’s governance, commerce, and culture are not just acknowledged, but remain intrinsically bound together in the future.

Councillor Nigel Ayre, Executive Member for Finance and Performance said:

We are thrilled to win this award and well done to everyone who was shortlisted. That there was such a wide breadth of incredible projects highlights what a special city York is. This investment in an iconic York building was a once-in-a-generation project and it has been amazing to see what has been achieved. This was a huge team and partnership effort and saw us overcome numerous challenges, including the COVID pandemic, and I want to once again thank everyone who was involved. This project secured the future of this famous building and it has been fantastic to see the impact it has had already, with businesses moving in and lots of positive feedback.”

York Design Awards celebrate and encourage good design in the city. Good architecture and sensitive building restoration play an important part in what makes York such a special place, routinely topping UK cities’ quality of life surveys. York Design Awards’ mission is to support that for the future and to encourage designers of new developments in the city to maintain the very highest standards – to create buildings and spaces that ‘delight’.

Chair of the York Design Awards judging panel Andy Davey, a senior partner at Simpson & Brown Architects, said:

“All the judges were greatly impressed by the quality and professionalism exhibited by this year’s entries. It proves yet again that York continues to inspire and foster good, uplifting architecture and sensitive design.”

Public Consultation on restoration of the Old Town Hall & Market Place, Whitby

May 31, 2022

As part of the consultation on proposals for the restoration of the Old Town Hall and Market Place in Whitby, representatives from BFF had a fascinating day seeking the views of local residents on Monday.

The Old Town Hall and Market Place project is one of six priority projects from the Whitby Town investment plan chosen to proceed to delivery under the Government’s Towns Fund programme which saw Whitby secure £17.1m.

Whitby’s Old Town Hall & Market Place, are Grade II* Listed and an iconic part of the town’s heritage. A toll-booth/town hall and market has been located on the site since the 17th century. After the original toll booth building became decayed and unsuitable, it was demolished and in 1788 the then Lord of the Manor, Nathaniel Cholmley commissioned Jonathan Pickernell of Whitby to design the Old Town Hall which stands today.
An outdoor market still takes place within Whitby market place and the undercroft of the old town hall building to this present day. However, the building is in a poor state of repair and the first floor has not been occupied or used since 2017.

The aims of the project are to:

Build on the history and heritage of the old town hall building and market place by repairing & restoring the building to secure its structural integrity and improve the appearance of this unique heritage asset for Whitby.
Restore the Old Town Hall Building as a key focal point for Whitby, through refurbishment and repurposing to create 112sqm of year round floorspace to ensure the building is sustainable and income-generating in the long term.
Create a vibrant and bustling year round market place, with 81sqm of improved quality of public realm and improved facilities for market traders, driving an increase in footfall and dwell times.

The project is been developed and supported by both Scarborough Borough Council and Whitby Town Council.

The project team comprising of officers and members from Scarborough Borough Council and Whitby Town Council, representatives from North Yorkshire County Council and Whitby Civic Society are now seeking the views from members of the public on the preferred option for the scheme, which would see the undercroft of the building glazed with sliding/opening panels and a split level landscape design for the market place.

The consultation period continues until Friday 10th June, and display boards explaining the scheme can be viewed in Whitby Library until that date.

International Making Cities Liveable Conference 2022 - Sharing lessons from Paris, its suburbs - and each other

May 13, 2022

The 2022 International Making Cities Liveable Conference (IMCL) will take place in Paris between the 18th and 20th May. The theme is "Architecture and the Edges of Public Space: Tools and Strategies for a New Urban Agenda". John Burrell will be giving presentations to Plenary sessions and moderating a Break-out session, in his role as a member of the IMCL Board of Stewards.

John Burrell presenting at the 2018 Beijing Design Week, City for Tomorrow Conference

The IMCL and its partners will host the next conference in the ground-breaking series begun in 1985. The IMCL is a unique peer-to-peer gathering of civic leaders, professionals and scholars dedicated to transitioning to a more liveable, humane and ecological generation of cities, towns and suburbs. Once again, they will focus upon successful case studies and evidence-based research, sharing effective tools and strategies to drive real change.

This year’s topic is: “What is the role of architecture in supporting more active, more connective, more beautiful public spaces, promoting human and planetary health, well-being, and liveability? How can we move from objects to places? What are the tools and strategies that we will need?” The focus will be on the tools and strategies to build, protect and enhance thriving public spaces, and the adjacent private spaces and uses to support well-being, social interaction, quality of life, exercise, health, and economic opportunity, for ALL the residents of cities, towns and suburbs.

*The Maison des Arts, the conference venue, located on the central square of Le Plessis-Robinson, Place Jane-Rhodes.*

The Paris region will be a case study this year. The main venue for the conference is Le Plessis-Robinson - a remarkable exemplar of suburban retrofit and transformation from a monocultural dormitory suburb to a mixed, walkable community built on universal principles of urbanism and public space. The conference will feature in-depth case studies of the Paris area, including new efforts toward a “15-minute City,” challenges of affordability and displacement, post-COVID urban interventions, and many other emerging topics. Examples from Europe, the USA and other parts of the world will also be examined.

As a member of the Board of Stewards of the IMCL, John Burrell will be making contributions to the plenary sessions on his work on remediating ‘grey land’ sites in London to show how ‘development’ should always be seen as part of a ‘city building’ process that acknowledges the primacy of the public spaces that we all inhabit. He will also be presenting the BFF proposals for the UK’s first planned new ‘e-quarter’ neighbourhood, based on 15-minute city principles, on the former Salthouse Mills brownfield site in Barrow-in-Furness.

Consultation on emerging plans for the UK’s first planned new ‘e-quarter’ neighbourhood, based on 15-minute city principles, on the former Salthouse Mills brownfield site in Barrow-in-Furness.

John’s pioneering and longstanding research for the intensification and placemaking in ‘new urban centres in suburbia’ has been presented in Paris, Berlin, Florence, Beijing (2018 Design Week), London, Glasgow and Moscow. In 2017 he was presented with the IMCL Honor Award for Excellence in Designing Public Places for Community, Democratic Dialogue, Health & Equity at the IMCL Conference in Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA. The award recognised John Burrell’s and BFF’s work with organisations such as SAVE Britain’s Heritage and The Spitalfields Trust in proposing alternative viable schemes for Smithfield Market (now to become the new Museum of London), and King’s College in the Strand and the Norton Folgate Area of Spitalfields. John was subsequently invited to join the IMCL Board of Stewards.

John will be moderating the Break-out session “Building 15-minute Neighbourhoods’” at the 2022 IMCL conference, which will include presentations by

Frederick Biehle, Professor at the Pratt Institute, Brooklyn, New York, USA
“Reinventing Public Housing: Restoring the Infrastructure of Community that Modernism Left Out”;
Mark Moreno, Professor of Architecture at Andrews University, Michigan, USA
“Promoting Healthy Neighborhoods: Lessons from COVID-19”; and
David Woltering, Community Planning Consultant, Woltering Community Planning, Santa Rosa, California, USA
“A Downtown Reimagined: Visions and Strategies to Restore the Historic Squares, Districts, and Public Spaces of Downtown Santa Rosa, California”

The full program for the conference can be found on the IMCL website: https://www.imcl.online/post/one-week-until-imcl-2022

Views sought on redevelopment of Salthouse Mills, Barrow-in-Furness

May 03, 2022

At an event held in the Town, local young employees of Barrow were invited to share their thoughts and ideas for what they would like to see on the new mixed-use development planned for Salthouse Mills. A New ECO Village, overlooking Cavendish Dock and the Irish Sea, is proposed with around 700 homes, together with supporting commercial leisure and retail facilities, including cafes and restaurants.

John Burrell, from Burrell Foley Fischer, architects and urban planners said

“It’s so important to hear what people want from an opportunity site as we start to form ideas of mix and type of apartments to create. It was abundantly clear that there is a dearth of high quality one and two bed, even studio apartments around and I’m confident we can create something truly unique and very high spec, especially given the Green, Eco brief.”

Will, a local 18 year old apprentice was very clear in his aspirations from the new proposals

“There are no clubs around here … if you want a night out, you end up having to plan a trip and often a stay over in Manchester. It would be better to spend money in Barrow”

The ability to have decent restaurants, several bars and at least one club would be a major boost. Leisure activities to include a football pitch, sailing on Cavendish Dock and a decent gym would all go towards making Salthouse a desirable place to live and work.

Other participants said that a major draw in moving to a new village with the aspirations of near zero energy use would be the prospect of constant low energy bills, coupled with a ‘feel-good’ factor of doing the right thing for the environment.

Some concerns included an electric vehicle policy only, but as Geoff Pyle, BFF’s Project Manager for the Salthouse project said

“Petrol and diesel cars are being phased out nationally, so the scheme will include a substantial number of electrical charging points. The team is looking at how to maintain the best air quality in Salthouse during this transition period, through the design of pedestrian areas and managing parking in the scheme.”

Another worry was the security aspect, given a history of anti-social behaviour at Salthouse. However John Burrell believes that places designed with proper residential streets and liveable places have built in passive overlooking and safety and a sense of ownership and pride in the place. One key definition of ‘liveable cites’ is that all ages feel comfortable. BFF have done lots of ‘design out crime' work. A security expert from Manchester came to discuss proposals for 24hr remote monitoring of the site from numerous vantage points across the Village.

Helen, who has recently started working in Barrow, has only just bought her first home in Lancaster, but would be keen to move to Salthouse if the proposals and overall vision gain approval from Barrow residents and councillors

“I love the idea of living green, travelling to work on an e-scooter or electric bike and being part of new cultural place with coffee bars and amazing views over the Dock. I think it could be something of a game changer if it all goes ahead”.

Hamza Kadeen from Hiltongrove, one of the senior members of the Team said he was delighted at the turnout and feedback given

“If you don’t engage early on, you don’t gain the invaluable local insights that are key to developing something that the local community truly want. This event was an initial data collection and feedback exercise but we are planning larger events for all local residents to attend to hear a much wider range of views. We are developing a dedicated Salthouse Mills app for interested parties to feedback directly to the Team and for us to share ideas as they progress. We are fortunate in having a very supportive Council with a very positive attitude and having dealt with a number of authorities over the years, that isn’t always the case!”

Kim Hubball, an artist who has been working with BarrowFull on her “Colours of Barrow" exhibition currently held at the Forum, was invited along to share her ideas of how art could be integrated into the streetscape to give Salthouse its own unique branding while building on the history of Barrow

“The opportunity to start with a blank canvas, and on a scale of this size, is every artist’s dream. My mind is already racing with ideas and I hope to be able to work with the Salthouse team over the next few months.”

Martine Moore, CEO of 6Tine who organised the event wanted to thank Cooke’s Studios and The Duke of Edinburgh Hotel for their help

“To hold an event showcasing the new vision ideas for Salthouse, against the backdrop of the current "Going Through the Mill" exhibition at Cookes was perfect timing - contrasting the industrial nature of the past against the new modern Green Living future being proposed. It was wonderful to see such enthusiasm from those who attended and contributed ideas. The team and I are already planning the next Salthouse local engagement event in Barrow and looking forward to meeting more local residents and employees”.

The developer, Hiltongrove, hopes to progress plans to submit to planning before the end of the year and will announce further details of public engagement events within the next few weeks.

Burrell Foley Fischer appointed for Worcester’s new arts centre

April 28, 2022

We are delighted to announce that Burrell Foley Fischer have been appointed as architects for the creation of a new performance arts and theatre venue in Worcester.

The project will transform the vacant Scala Theatre and Grade-II-listed Corn Exchange buildings into a performance arts venue for the city, alongside the broader revival of the area, including a currently empty building at 8 Angel Street, formerly a Co-op store. BFF have been appointed to design the new theatre and cultural hub, which will offer leading theatrical, music and performance facilities.

The City Council secured £17.9 million from the Government’s Future High Streets Fund to revamp the area around Angel Place and Angel Street, and improvements are already underway to the pavements and environment of the area.

Burrell Foley Fischer have four decades of experience designing all types of arts buildings, from drama to music and dance to cinema. The majority of our arts projects utilise existing buildings in some way. Our projects have included the Crucible in Sheffield, The Almeida in London and the recently completed Hall for Cornwall in Truro, which was shortlisted for Theatre Building of the Year at The Stage newspaper 2022 Awards.

Specialist theatre consultants Theatreplan have also been appointed to work on the project. They bring a wealth of experience to the creation of Worcester’s new arts centre within some of the city’s most historic buildings, with their work including Battersea Arts Centre, the Glasgow Citizens Theatre and Sydney Opera House.

The design team, led by BFF, includes Mechanical and Electrical Engineers E3 Consulting Engineers and Structural Engineers Integral Engineering Design. Arno Acoustics will advise on the acoustic design and Hilson Moran will provide fire safety advice.

The City Council has appointed Equals Consulting as project managers and cost consultants for this major initiative to stimulate economic growth at the northern gateway to the city centre. Their pedigree includes projects at the Natural History Museum, Bristol Hippodrome, and the Science Museum, among a wide range of other work.

David Blake, Managing Director of Worcester City Council, said:

“It’s very exciting to be progressing this major investment in the northern part of the city centre. This project will stimulate economic growth in Worcester, creating a new city centre hub for theatre, music, comedy and more. The broader regeneration of the Angel Street and Angel Place area will also bring broader social, economic, and environmental benefits, alongside new living opportunities in the city centre and the enhancement of some of our city’s most striking historic buildings.”

York’s historic Guildhall restored and transformed

April 27, 2022

Practical Completion has been achieved on the Burrell Foley Fischer designed refurbishment and remodelling of the York Guildhall complex. The innovative scheme included an extensive programme of works to refurbish the buildings and to create a first-class business venue, whilst also respecting the great heritage. City of York Council said it was “delighted to confirm that the restoration of the Guildhall has now been completed, with one of York’s historic buildings now ready to support local businesses and drive economic growth”.

The Guildhall is a collection of Grade I, II* and II listed buildings built around the 15th century hall and riverside meeting room. Before the project, the complex had only seen reactive repairs and maintenance works since extensive rebuilding work was carried out following the Baedeker bombing raids in 1942. This comprehensive scheme of refurbishment has safeguarded the building’s future, providing accessible 21st century facilities and amenities to complement the historical significance.

The restored Guildhall will offer:

· high quality (business) office, meeting, conference and events space

· availability for community, civic and council use

· a café

· a new riverside restaurant

· access for visitors and local residents

Funding for the £21.7m restoration and redevelopment work was provided by City of York Council, York and North Yorkshire LEP and West Yorkshire Combined Authority through respective HMG Growth Deal contributions and the Getting Building Fund.

Following the restoration, the building will be leased to York Science Park (YSPL), a subsidiary of the University of York, helping to support local entrepreneurs and start-ups looking to grow.

Councillor Keith Aspden, Leader of City of York Council, said:

“The Guildhall is one of York’s and the region’s most historically significant buildings and I am pleased to see this great asset restored for the city. The investment in the Guildhall means that the complex will once again play an important role in the city’s future for years to come, with excellent facilities for businesses and local residents to benefit from. I would like to thank the efforts of staff and partners, who have worked tirelessly throughout the course of the pandemic to help deliver this project.”

Councillor Nigel Ayre, Executive Member for Finance and Performance at City of York Council, said:

“The Council has made a major contribution to secure the long-term future of the Guildhall via this restoration project and we are proud to be custodians of such a nationally important building in the city. Crucially, we have been able to preserve the historic character of the building, whilst also redeveloping the building for business, social and civic uses. The Guildhall will be accessible for local residents for the first time in many years, with tours and open days taking place next month, offering an opportunity for people to take a look inside.”

Chris Winspear, Regional Director at VINCI, the construction contractor for the project said:

“It has been an honour to take on this once-in-a-generation project and the resulting transformation is testament to the successful partnership working between City of York Council, the design team, ourselves and our supply chain. There have been some extraordinary engineering and logistic challenges to overcome and our team are very proud in what they have accomplished. It’s been a delight returning the Guildhall to its former glory, whilst repurposing it for twenty-first century use.”

The focus now is on furnishing so the building can fully reopen in May. As part of the reopening of the Guildhall, a series of tours and open days will be taking place so people can see the restoration for themselves.

Aidan Ridyard gives the 35th Bromsgrove Lecture

April 13, 2022

Aidan Ridyard has given the 35th Bromsgrove Lecture, hosted by the Bromsgrove Society, where he discussed the topic of creative conservation, where heritage buildings are brought back to life for our modern society. The presentation took place at Routh Hall, Bromsgrove School on Tuesday April 12th.

Using examples of recent and current projects, Aidan, described how BFF develop a series of uniquely crafted design solutions to unlock the potential of some remarkable listed buildings around the country. These are characterised by a fresh approach to the perennial problems of helping historic structures find contemporary relevance and a meaningful long-term future in an ever-changing world.

Projects featured included the refurbishment and remodelling of the Listed Grade I, II* and II York Guildhall complex, into a city centre hub for business, enterprise and events run by the University of York, a new 1350 seat theatre incorporating two listed buildings in Truro, and the redevelopment of the Grade I Listed headquarters of the Royal Society of Arts in London.

Also discussed were projects in the Midlands, including the redevelopment of the Roundhouse as a canal side visitor centre in central Birmingham for the National Trust and the Canal and River Trust, and the remodelling of Listed Grade II carpet weaving sheds and the former magistrates court in Kidderminster to form a new cultural and creative hub.

Joanne Slade, Aidan Ridyard and Pat Tansell

Following the lecture Joanne Slade, Vice Chairman, of the Bromsgrove Society said:

“Thank you so much for an excellent lecture last night - I thoroughly enjoyed it and have received some wonderful feedback this morning. I found your care for the projects, the buildings, the places and the people really inspiring, and I loved that the starting place for your designs is the medieval maps, bringing the best of the past to be the best of the future. I agree that our historic buildings should remain as the foundation of our futures, and that making them live and breathe again will ensure their survival. Of course all this depends on the clients being open to change, and I am sure that your approach, confidence and care guarantees that the door to change is opened and walked through.”

Aidan is currently working with Bromsgrove District Council to develop their Bromsgrove 2040 vision for the town centre and is writing his first book, on the Church architecture of Wolverhampton architect Richard Twentyman, which will be published later this year.

The Bromsgrove Society exists to preserve the history and promote the sustainable development of the town of Bromsgrove in north Worcestershire. They organise the annual Bromsgrove Lecture which has attracted a large audience over the thirty years of its existence and is given by an expert in the field.

Hall for Cornwall shortlisted for Constructing Excellence South West Awards 2022

April 12, 2022

The restoration and remodelling of Hall for Cornwall, Grade II* Listed, has been shortlisted in two categories of the 2022 Constructing Excellence South West (CESW) Awards. It is nominated for both the Building Project of the Year Award and the Conservation and Rejuvenation Award.

Increased access to Arts and Culture for the community of Cornwall will result from the refurbishment of the historic buildings, together with the facilities required to support a sustainable business model for the organisation. The new Husa Hub (meaning ‘to create an illusion or dream’ in Cornish), will combine the venue’s artist development programmes with a dynamic and diverse co-working space; nurturing and supporting Cornish performance artists and bringing together local and creative businesses, start-ups, artists, charities and social enterprises.

Entries that have been shortlisted for the CESW Awards will next month make an online presentation to the judging panels, this is the second stage of the judging process, and winners be announced at an Awards dinner in September. A full list of the shortlisted projects can be read here.

Hall for Cornwall shortlisted in RICS 2022 Awards

April 11, 2022

Hall for Cornwall is amongst some of the most impressive recent building projects from across the UK that have been shortlisted for the RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) Awards 2022.

The RICS Awards showcase the most inspirational initiatives and developments in land, real estate, construction and infrastructure. They recognise outstanding achievement, teamwork and companies. Hall for Cornwall has been shortlisted in the Refurbishment/Revitalisation category.

Hall for Cornwall has recently reopened after a multimillion-pound regeneration of the Grade II* listed buildings. The revitalisation has increased the theatre’s audience capacity, providing a more intimate atmosphere with improved sightlines and acoustics. The heritage of the buildings has been conserved and restored bringing them to better use. The renovated venue provides a warmer welcome and improved experience, including new cafés and bar areas on both sides of the building. The project has improved access to arts and culture for the community through a brilliant new performance facility and a sustainable business model for the future of the organisation.

Chair of the RICS Awards David Brooks Wilson FRICS, said:

“Despite much uncertainty and challenging conditions over the past couple of years, property professionals across the UK continue to deliver exemplary, and in many cases, world-class built projects that are having a profoundly positive impact on our cities and towns. I wish the teams behind them all the best of luck in gaining recognition for their skills and hard work.”

The shortlisted projects, which include everything from a new flood defence scheme, through to restoration of historic landmarks, will be judged by expert judging panels across the country, with winners of the regional awards announced virtually in May.

The award news came in the same week that BFF Director Helen Grassly and Julien Boast, CEO Hall for Cornwall, gave a well-received lecture to the RIBA South West, at which they discussed the remodelling of the buildings.