Becket’s Chapel Restoration Works is a Regional Finalist in the 2025 CIVIC TRUST AABC Conservation Awards

In November 2023, CBG Consultants were involved in the restoration of Becket’s Chapel, a Grade I listed building in Wymondham.

Becket’s Chapel has recently been credited as a Regional Finalist in the 2025 CIVIC TRUST AABC Awards, and CBG’s contribution to the Chapel’s upgrades have played a part in achieving this prestigious recognition. Only 11 successful National projects receive either an Award or are Highly Commended. Therefore, this acknowledgement celebrates the dedication and creativity of CBG Consultants and Architect Studio Ltd, behind preserving and adapting this historic building to meet the needs of future generations.

As one of the most prominent historical assets in the town, some elements of Becket’s Chapel date back to as early as the 12th century. However, several years of neglect left the building requiring substantial repairs. CBG were employed to address M&E concerns, improve sustainability, undertake LZC Analysis, and install Specialist Lighting Designs.

The first phase of the restoration focused on critical repairs to the fabric of the building to make it watertight, structurally sound and in a usable condition. CBG conducted a comprehensive M&E survey to assess the condition of the building. We then provided a list of repair proposals, which highlighted works required in order of priority from urgent (generally health and safety related) to within 5 years.

On the mechanical side, the existing gas-fired heating system was outdated and expensive to run. CBG investigated replacement solutions, drawing upon our extensive knowledge of Low Zero Carbon technologies, such as Ground Source Heat Pumps, Air Source Heat pumps and Solar PV panels.

As part of these works, CBG also carried out thermal dynamic modelling of the Chapel using I.E.S software. This enabled CBG to predict heat loss scenarios under different building fabric improvement strategies, helping us to identify the most cost-effective and appropriate solutions for the client. Despite the installation of a new heating plant being earmarked for a future phase, this comprehensive analysis afforded the client a well-informed strategy. In the meantime, a new underfloor heating system was installed as part of the building fabric works, selected because it could easily be adapted for any number of future LZC systems.

Additionally, the existing electrical services within the building needed a complete overhaul. The linear lighting grid was replaced with a functional and discreet spotlight system at high level, complemented with two decorative pendants for aesthetics. The new power and data supplies were carefully routed through the flooring to avoid visual intrusion whilst providing the outlets required to host a variety of events. Finally, a new fire alarm and emergency lighting systems were also installed to bring the building up to current standards and ensure safety measures were implemented.

These initiatives will ensure the chapel is more environmentally and economically sustainable for the future. Today, the chapel is a special place for people to visit all year round for meetings, concerts, talks, wedding celebrations, markets, and Wymondham’s Art Exhibition. This work safeguards these events for the future, maintaining both the building’s functionality, and aesthetics.

This project therefore represents the heart of what we do here at CBG: amalgamating thoughtful conservation with innovative, sustainable design solutions to inject new life into historic buildings for future use. Being shortlisted alongside some of the country’s most significant conservation projects reflects the impact CBG’s work has had on the Chapel’s restoration success.