You are here : Home > Planning & Design > Conservation & Design > Graham Allen Awards

Graham Allen Awards

This is the twenty-ninth year of the Graham Allen Award which was inaugurated in 1982 as a memorial to the late Councillor G.S. Allen, first Chairman of North Norfolk District Council. Since then, the award, in the form of a bronze plaque, has been presented annually by the Council to the scheme considered to make the most significant contribution to the conservation of the built environment within the District. Schemes considered worthy of commendation are also acknowledged by the presentation of certificates. The panel of judges comprises of members elected from the Development Control Committees, the relevant Portfolio Member and Mr Edward Allen (who represents the Allen family).

During the years, awards have been made for both the conservation and restoration of listed and unlisted buildings and also for new buildings which, through their design, including the innovative use of traditional building forms and detailing, contribute to the built environment.

Inaugurated in 1982, the annual award rewards schemes making a significant contribution to the built environment within our District. For more information please call Chris Young on (01263) 516138.

Entries for the 2010 have now closed.  The winners will be announced after the award ceremony on the 23rd September 2010.  Entries for 2011 will open in May of next year using the following entry form.

2009 Winners
Last year's Graham Allen Award for Conservation & Design was won by a major restoration and modernisation project at Binham Priory. The priory dates from 1091 and stands in the heart of Binham’s Conservation Area. It now consists of the 12th Century Church of St Mary and Holy Cross and the 15th Century Gatehouse, both of which are Grade I Listed Buildings, and the extensive ruins of the monastic precinct which are scheduled as an ancient monument.

This partnership project has involved adding a new kitchen and toilet extension on the line of the former north aisle of the Church. It has also seen the repair and restoration of the Gatehouse, including the removal of an agricultural building from within its carriage entrance. With associated access improvements to the paths and interpretation panels across the site, the facilities on site have been significantly improved.

The judges welcomed this major project as it has not only helped secure a more viable future for one of the most important heritage assets within North Norfolk, but it has also helped demonstrate that even the most sensitive of buildings can be adapted to meet 21st Century needs and aspirations.

Congratulations go to the scheme partners, Binham Parochial Church Council, Binham Priory Trust and the Norfolk Archaeological Trust, and to the architects Donald Insall Associates and the Whitworth Co-Partnership. A bronze plaque was presented to the winning entry by Councillor Hilary Nelson, North Norfolk District Council’s Heritage Champion and a member of the judging panel.

The residential conversion of Priory Barn, Abbey Farm, Weybourne was Highly Commended for the sympathetic way it has rejuvenated a dilapidated listed building, whilst a new link building at 22 The Street, West Raynham received a Commendation for its innovative contemporary design.

Previous Winners

Details of previous awards, including commendations:

For more information about the Graham Allen Award please contact the North Norfolk District Council's Conservation and Design Section: Tel: (01263) 516138 or Fax: (01263) 514802 or email: chris.young@north-norfolk.gov.uk

Contact Conservation and Design Tel: 01263 516165
Email: conservationanddesign@north-norfolk.gov.uk