West Norfolk church set for major restoration
A project has begun in Thetford to restore the medieval church building known locally as ‘the black church’.
After being empty for decades,
St Peter’s Church in Thetford is set to undergo major restoration works to bring it back into use.
The building, known as ‘the black church’ for its flint chequerboard exterior, is a 14th-century Grade II listed building.
The Thetford Town Council project has been successful in its expression of interest to the Nation Heritage Lottery Fund, an important step in securing funding for the project.
Conservation work is needed to repair the roof, address damage to the tower louvres, and treat an infestation of death watch beetles. Upgrades will also be required to meet current fire safety and accessibility standards.
Although unused for many years, the building remains an important heritage asset.
Councillor Annie Blackbourn, chair of the council's heritage and events committee, told the EDP: "St Peter's Church is woven into the fabric of Thetford's history. It is a building that holds stories from across the centuries and deserves to be safeguarded for future generations.
"We're proud to be moving this forward and are committed to seeing it brought back to life."
The council is working with conservation specialists to submit a full application to the heritage fund.
Advice is also being sought from Historic England to ensure the project meets national conservation standards.
This story is based on an article in the Eastern Daily Press