The Forum Trust is delighted that planning has been granted for minor works to the external elevation of The Forum building. LSI Architects submitted a planning application on behalf of The Forum Trust for glazing in the triangular end of the south wing below the BBC offices, new glass doors on to the external paved area known as Millennium Plain and an additional door on the Theatre Street side to retain an access route to the Car Park from outside.

 

The detailing of the proposed works is designed to match the existing detailing by Hopkins Architects, who are fully supportive of the proposals. They are also in keeping with the ‘Long Life, Loose Fit’ approach to the design of buildings which is encouraged by the Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment (CABE). The proposals for works to The Forum reflect an evolution of uses and serve to make The Forum ever more accessible and relevant to the public and its users.

Internally, an ambitious plan is proposed, with partners from City College Norwich, the BBC and The Forum Trust working together to provide new services for the people of Norwich and Norfolk. Currently, new services under discussion are a digital media gallery and learning space, a free educational facility and resource for filming and editing under the expert supervision of the BBC and an auditorium with tiered seating for business, performance, educational and community use. A suggested rearrangement of the existing services would also see a new reception area, a revised retail offer and a remodelled Tourist Information Centre that will be much more visible to their many visitors.

 

Months of research, feasibility studies and design development undertaken to identify the changing needs of The Forum and its users indicate that these exciting ideas could offer the people of Norwich and Norfolk even better facilities in which to meet and learn at The Forum.

 

Now that planning application has granted, the final costs for building works can be obtained from contractors and it is anticipated that the changes will be complete in late 2008 or early 2009.

 

Robin Hall, Chief Executive of The Forum Trust said: “These are exciting times for The Forum Trust as we look to refresh the offer at The Forum. We are committed to responding to the changing needs of people in Norwich and Norfolk and to ensuring that The Forum continues to be relevant and exciting in the 21^st century. We anticipate being able to provide more information to the public regarding these new developments in early summer. “

 

For artists impressions please click on the image below for a larger version.