The Abbey of St Edmund, Reborn project receives major funding grant

As architect and lead consultant, we are providing architectural and heritage consultancy services as well as coordinating a large multidisciplinary design team to bring the precinct vision to life for the Abbey of St Edmund Heritage Partnership.

Led by St Edmundsbury Cathedral, West Suffolk Council and English Heritage, the partnership brings together 29 organisations and individuals with a shared interest in the Abbey.

The scheme will reconnect the fragmented 60-acre site, making it easier to explore and understand. Alongside the conservation of the medieval ruins, a new visitor centre and west cloister will provide interpretation and flexible community space.

Elements include:

• Medieval Abbey ruins will be conserved securing their long-term sustainable future, while a visitor centre and west cloister will provide orientation, interpretation and flexible community space. 

• A 1.4km accessible circular route will support mobility, sensory and cognitive needs, physically and visually reconnecting the Abbey ruins, Cathedral and historic town, strengthening understanding of the site’s national significance. 

• An activity plan will deliver 47 coordinated community activities, 200 volunteering and 21 training opportunities across 19 roles, two apprenticeships and five funded staff posts, in collaboration with 29 local organisations spanning heritage, biodiversity, archaeology and the creative sectors. 

• Biodiversity enhancements along the rare chalk stream Rivers Lark and Linnet will enrich the historic landscape. 

Photo courtesy of St Edmundsbury Cathedral and Tom Soper