Norwich church wall repairs approved after collapse risk

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 18 Oct, 07:02 · Archive

Norwich City Council has approved repairs to the west wall of the 14th-century St Gregory's Church in Norwich Lanes. The Historic Churches Trust submitted the scheme in August, citing public safety concerns and the need to protect the building's heritage.

The church's west wall is crumbling and presents a direct risk of collapse onto St Gregory's Alley, a busy pedestrian and cycle route below. Loose masonry could fall onto those walking through the alley if the deterioration is left unaddressed. The church currently houses St Gregory's Antiques and Collectables.

Under the approved scheme, around ten square metres of unstable flintwork will be dismantled and rebuilt. Hot lime mortar will be used during repairs to avoid the damp problems that have affected other parts of the building following previous cement repairs. The trust says the work will halt active deterioration and extend the serviceable life of this grade I asset. St Gregory's is one of five churches along St Benedict's Street and is known for having some of the finest wall paintings in East Anglia.

How it is being reported

• City centre church wall repairs approved after collapse warningA bid to repair a 14th century church to prevent a wall from collapsing into a busy city thoroughfare has been approved.Eastern Daily Press · 18 Oct, 06:00
• City centre church wall repairs approved after collapse warningA bid to repair a 14th century church to prevent a wall from collapsing into a busy city thoroughfare has been approved.Norwich Evening News · 18 Oct, 06:00

In this story: St Gregory's Church · Norwich City Council · Historic Churches Trust · Norwich · St Gregory's Alley

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