The final phase of repair and repurposing work on a Grade I Norfolk chapel which is on the heritage at risk register can go ahead after a substantial grant was secured from the Architectural Heritage Fund.

The Norfolk Historic Buildings Trust will be able to start detailed planning and fundraising for Becket’s Chapel in the centre of Wymondham.

NHBT has already secured in excess of £700,000 grant funding from a range of sources including Historic England, the Architectural Heritage Fund and Norwich Freemen’s Charity.

This enabled the trust to embark on the first phase of major repairs to the fabric and upgrade the services and facilities in the building.

This phase, due to be completed in early June, included full retrofit analysis of the chapel.

It also incorporates sustainable services, insulation and other measures to support the drive to Net Zero, reducing carbon emissions. 

The plans for the second phase will build upon these initiatives, incorporating ground or air source heating and solar panels into a proposed modern extension to achieve sustainable year-round use of the whole building.

It will also include an upgrade of the annexe with accessible facilities, storage and when combined with the new extension, room for a café and welcome desk/visitor information point, designed to attract visitors to Wymondham town centre.

Laura Williams, of the Architectural Heritage Fund, said: "The medieval Becket’s Chapel is such an important building, not just for Wymondham but for the nation.

"The work being led by Norfolk Historic Buildings Trust will secure its future and provide a special place for local people and visitors to use and enjoy all year round."

Judith Harwood, NHBT chair, said: "We are delighted by AHF’s continued and substantial support for our project. Without their support it is unlikely this project would have got off the ground. We now have the real prospect of bringing to fruition our long-held vision for this remarkable building."