font size: Increase | Decrease | Reset

Frequently asked questions

Why is the regeneration needed?

Today the buildings are a familiar and cherished landmark in the local scene, however they are not used as much as they could be - the spaces are not welcoming, accessibility is poor and the layout and facilities are not up to modern standards or expectations. In addition they face a mounting repair and maintenance bill and will rapidly start declining if major refurbishment does not take place.

Studies have also shown there is a gap in Norwich‘s current provision of concert venues housing 300-900 people and conference venues hosting up to 500 people with adequate break-out spaces. The Halls would be well-placed to provide for such demand if the space and facilities were improved.

What will the benefits of the project be?

Key benefits of the project include:

A new, lively cultural hub which includes multi-functional arts and concert performance spaces
Separate and flexible new conference facilities in a signature new building as part of the complex
An inspiring, informative and welcoming experience for visitors
A massive positive impact for the local economy
A sustainable alternative to constructing a new building
Active involvement of the whole community

What will the buildings be used for when they are finished?

The buildings will still be available for the sorts of events that currently take place there. The Halls will continue to be a natural home for community groups and local performances - with improved accessibility and facilities they will be suitable for a wide group of organisations and individuals. They would also be used more extensively for conferences and meetings and could attract a much wider range of events and performances.

Who is the architect for the project?

Hopkins Architects were selected as the architectural and design team for the project in spring 2009 following a competitive process.

Hopkins Architects, led by director Andrew Barnett, along with their assembled team of other specialists, are working alongside HEART to prepare the concept designs, outline specifications and costings, and to help inform consultations with users and negotiations over funding which will be needed at this preparatory stage of the project. They will also be in place to support the development of these proposals in more detail as the project progresses to later stages.

It is not the first time Hopkins Architects has worked on Norwich‘s iconic buildings; their projects include The Forum as well as the striking Refectory and Hostry at Norwich Cathedral. Their past projects nationally also include the Glyndebourne Opera House, near Lewes, the refurbishment of the Royal Academy of Arts in Piccadilly, and Portcullis House, part of the Palace of Westminster.

What will the new complex look like?

The layout of The Halls will look much the same from the outside with a new welcoming wing on St Andrew‘s Plain. More detailed design work is currently underway.

Who is leading on the project?

The Halls are owned by Norwich City Council, which has asked Norwich Heritage Economic and Regeneration Trust (HEART) to lead in developing this important regeneration project.

HEART is a private charitable trust set up in 2004 by Norwich City Council to act as an umbrella organisation for the city‘s heritage and to strategically plan, regenerate and promote the city‘s heritage resources. It aims to provide an international standard of best practice for heritage as a vehicle for social and economic regeneration.

HEART has already established a solid track record in securing funding for heritage regeneration projects and successfully delivering such projects.

How much will the project cost?

It is estimated the project will cost £20 million.

How will the project be funded?

HEART is working to secure funding from a variety of sources. Proposals on this scale need support from national, regional and local sources and from lottery funds, public funds, the private sector and individual donations.

When will building work take place?

It is hoped that the project will be delivered in 2014-5. Before then funding will be sought, designs will be drawn up and a public consultation period will run.

Where will the organisations that currently use the buildings go during the building phase?

HEART will work closely with such individuals and organisations to minimize the impact of the closure, looking at a range of options in alternative venues.

What about noise levels from the buildings?

HEART has employed technical consultants to advise on noise levels into and out of the building, which has been an issue for local residents and performers in the past. HEART is confident that the buildings can be made sound-proof and that this issue can be fully resolved.

How can I find out more and get involved?

Thoughts, comments and questions you may have about the project are warmly welcomed. If you would like to be kept up-to-date about the plans for The Halls and public consultation periods or pledge your support for the plans please send us your name, organisation name (if applicable), email address and/or postal address.

Norwich HEART
PO Box 3130
Norwich NR2 1XR

info@heritagecity.org

01603 305575

More information will also be added to these pages as the project develops, so keep coming back for the latest news: www.heritagecity.org/thehalls.

Latest News

Register Your Details

If you would like to receive the latest news and events information from HEART please complete the details below.