Project Manager, James Mellish, talks connecting Suffolk’s Heritage
A major step forward has been reached for the Abbey of St Edmund Reborn project, with a £9.8 million Delivery Phase application now submitted to the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Meanwhile, a series of talks will take place across Suffolk to spread the word about the project and our aims, specifically in areas outside of Bury St Edmunds which has already seen public consultation and project update talks. These sessions have been organised in partnership with local heritage sites to deliver project information to new audiences. These evening events will be hosted at:
- The Food Museum in Stowmarket on Tuesday 26 May
- National Trust Ickworth in Horringer on Wednesday 17 June
- National Trust Sutton Hoo near Woodbridge on Tuesday 23 June
- The Hold in Ipswich on Thursday 9 July
These talks aim to build a stronger, county-wide heritage network, encouraging collaboration between sites while encouraging shared marketing, communications and visitor journeys across Suffolk.
Additionally, on Saturday 16 May, the Abbey Gardens will host a special Bury Wildlife Festival ‘Revealing our living landscape’ organised by the Bury Water Meadows Group, celebrating the natural environment at the heart of this project. This event will highlight the ecological significance of the Abbey site and offer opportunities for visitors to engage with nature, conservation and local wildlife.
Looking ahead
Through conservation, storytelling and collaboration, the Abbey of St Edmund Reborn project will reanimate this historic site for new audiences. With 47 planned activities spanning heritage engagement, creative programmes, biodiversity initiatives and volunteering, the project will create lasting opportunities for communities across Suffolk.
Together, the partnership is building a sustainable future for the Abbey, one that secures its place as a centre for heritage, learning and community for generations to come.
