West Front

The degree of creative cooperation between all parties on this project was refreshing; such was the enthusiasm of all for the restoration to succeed. The involvement of English Heritage at the planning stage and in the care of the scheduled ancient monument was extremely valuable.Hugh Bunbury, Project Architect, Nicholas Jacob Architects

This is a unique project which shows what can be done when everyone works together. It celebrates our rich heritage while bringing fresh life to some of the most wonderful buildings in Bury St Edmunds.Cllr John Griffiths, Leader, St Edmundsbury Borough Council

Bury St Edmunds Abbey was once amongst the most important medieval monasteries in England. In the 21st century, its ruined Norman West Front had become a Building at Risk. Houses inserted into the structure in the 18th century lay derelict and a major project was required to make them habitable again. The West Front was extraordinarily sensitive and important: both a scheduled ancient monument and grade I listed. The Abbey was the centrepiece around which the entire town had grown. The West Front is adjacent to the Cathedral and Bury’s main public park.

English Heritage helped to identify a ‘dream team’ of skilled practitioners prepared to take on both the delicate task of conservation and conversion and the financial risks of developing five new high-quality dwellings.

St Edmundsbury Borough Council, which owned the site, was then able to engage in detailed pre-application negotiations. Armed with a detailed understanding of the structure, it became possible for all parties working together to identify effective and appropriate conservation solutions for the historic fabric. The detailing of contemporary interventions and the design of new rear extensions were particularly sensitive, yet the project was completed on time and under budget.

One of East Anglia’s defining buildings has been resurrected, bringing a nationally important Building at Risk back into use. Five new homes – all now occupied – have also been added to the heart of this historic market town.