Project Manager Update – The Abbey of St Edmund, Reborn

Project Manager Update: October

Abbey of St Edmund Reborn: We Need Your Expertise – New Project Board Members

As we move into delivery, we’re looking to strengthen our Project Board with people who can bring strategic thinking, professional expertise, and constructive challenge to help shape this shared vision for Bury St Edmunds and West Suffolk.

We’re seeking two or three new Project Board members to join us for the delivery phase. We’re particularly interested in people with experience or strong networks in three key areas:

Natural heritage and local biodiversity – experience or knowledge in biodiversity conservation, environmental management, ecological restoration, chalk streams, landscape management, climate change and sustainability, or community engagement with the natural environment.

Community engagement, education and learning – experience in further and higher education, schools and lifelong learning, community development, skills development, volunteering, inclusive and accessible learning, or working with young people and under-represented communities.

Visitor economy, tourism, communications and marketing – expertise in tourism and destination development, visitor attractions, cultural tourism, hospitality, marketing and communications, audience development, digital engagement, or place-making.

What matters most is that you can think strategically, bring constructive challenge, and help us build something that lasts. We’re looking for people who can contribute not just technical expertise, but genuine strategic insight.

Project Board members meet monthly in person at St Edmundsbury Cathedral to provide strategic oversight throughout the delivery programme. These roles will offer professional advice, contribute expertise, help identify opportunities and partnerships that could strengthen the project, consider the needs and interests of local communities and stakeholders, and support us in achieving our heritage, environmental, educational and community outcomes. You’ll also contribute to discussions around risk, sustainability, legacy and long-term impact – and where appropriate, help champion the project within your networks.

This is a voluntary position. Day-to-day project management is the responsibility of our Project Manager and professional team, so you won’t be managing delivery – you’ll be providing the strategic thinking that helps us succeed.

If you, or someone you know may be interested, please download the recruitment sheet here.

You can submit your letter of interest via email to: James Mellish, Project Manager. james@jmenvironmental.co.uk
Application deadline, 5.00 pm on Friday 13 November 2026

Project Manager Update: September

Abbey of St Edmund Reborn: A New Chapter Begins

Exciting progress is being made on the Abbey of St Edmund Reborn project as we prepare to take the next major step towards delivery.

We are currently awaiting official permission to start from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, which will unlock the project’s three-year delivery programme. This is an important milestone and will allow the team to move forward with the detailed work needed to bring our ambitious plans to life.

What happens next?

Over the coming months, the project team will continue developing the detailed designs for the capital works, including the proposed visitor centre and West Cloister, repairs to the Abbey ruins, improvements to the path networks, and measures to enhance biodiversity across the site.

We will also continue working closely with the local planning authority to agree the remaining details associated with the planning conditions, helping ensure the project is ready to move into construction.

Subject to the necessary approvals, phased construction is expected to begin in Spring 2027, with the main contract works anticipated to get underway in Summer 2027.

But the project is about much more than buildings and physical improvements. Alongside the capital programme, we will be recruiting new staff to help deliver our ambitious activity plan, creating new opportunities for learning, volunteering, engagement and participation.

We are also developing the project’s brand identity, helping establish a strong and recognisable identity. At the same time, we are strengthening the Project Board, welcoming new members and expertise to support effective governance throughout the delivery period.

There is a great deal still to do, but the vision is becoming increasingly tangible. We look forward to sharing further updates as we move towards this exciting new chapter for the Abbey site and its future.

Project Manager Update: August

Project Manager, James Mellish, Conservation in Action at the Abbey Gardens

English Heritage alongside The Town Trust and members of the Abbey of St Edmund Reborn project welcomed members of the public to a free Conservation in Action Day in the Abbey Gardens on 5 August. The event offered a unique opportunity to see conservation specialists at work, repairing the Abbey’s historic flint walls using traditional techniques and materials.

Throughout the day, visitors could watch live demonstrations of traditional stonemasonry and hot lime mortar, as well as rope-access techniques used by specialists working on the Abbey’s historic fabric. These demonstrations provided a fascinating insight into the skills, knowledge and craftsmanship involved in caring for one of Suffolk’s most important historic sites.

The event, hosted by English Heritage, was designed to be accessible and engaging for visitors of all ages, with family activities providing opportunities for younger visitors to get involved and discover more about the Abbey’s history and conservation. Members of the public could also meet the conservation team, ask questions and learn more about the conservation of the Abbey ruins and the wider Abbey of St Edmund Reborn project and the work taking place to safeguard the site for future generations.

The Conservation in Action Day was also an opportunity to bring the project to life beyond the Abbey Gardens. The event demonstrated the value of opening up conservation work to the public, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the specialist skills and traditional techniques helping to preserve the Abbey’s historic fabric. It was a successful day of learning, participation and community engagement, bringing the English Heritage and the Abbey of St Edmund Reborn project closer to the people it aims to inspire and involve.

The Bury Free Press joined the event and wrote an article where you can view more photos of the day here.

Conservation in Action Day – Wednesday 5 August 2026

Exciting progress continues on the Abbey of St Edmund, Reborn, delivered in partnership by St Edmundsbury Cathedral, West Suffolk Council and English Heritage. The project is preserving one of England’s most important monastic sites while creating a more accessible, engaging and sustainable destination for everyone.

As part of this work, English Heritage is inviting the public to a free Conservation in Action Day in the Abbey Gardens from 10.00 am to 4.00 pm.

CATHEDRAL 310725 ©tomsoperphotography 40

This special event offers a rare opportunity to see skilled conservation specialists at work as they repair the Abbey’s historic flint walls using traditional materials and techniques. Visitors can meet the conservation team, explore completed repairs, learn why these works are essential, and discover the fascinating history of the Abbey’s surviving structures.

There will also be live demonstrations of stonemasonry, hot lime mortar techniques and rope access on the Abbey Gate, alongside hands-on activities including stone carving. Families are especially welcome, with children’s activities such as soapstone carving, colouring and a treasure hunt running throughout the day.

Whether you’re interested in history, heritage, traditional crafts or simply want to learn more about this remarkable project, we’d love to see you there and celebrate the conservation of one of Suffolk’s most treasured historic sites.

Project Manager Update: July

Project Manager, James Mellish, shares next steps following funding announcement

The Abbey of St Edmund, Reborn project has reached an exciting milestone as it moves into its next phase of delivery. Following the successful £7.137m grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, contributing to a total project of £9.83m, the project team is now focused on putting the foundations in place for the next stage of work, which will culminate in construction beginning in spring 2027.

The immediate priority is to finalise and agree the contract terms with the appointed project team. Once these are in place, work will progress into the next technical design stages, where detailed plans will be developed to ensure the project is ready for construction. This phase will involve close collaboration between the design team, specialist consultants, contractors, and key stakeholders to refine the proposals and prepare for delivery on site.

Alongside the capital works, preparations are also underway to strengthen the team that will deliver the project’s ambitious programme of public engagement. New staff appointments will support the delivery of a coordinated Activity Plan featuring 47 heritage engagement activities. These activities have been designed to connect a wide range of audiences with the rich history of the Abbey of St Edmund through learning, participation, volunteering, skills development, and community events. The programme will ensure that local communities and visitors alike can engage with the site’s heritage throughout the project and beyond.

The coming months will focus on maintaining momentum, building partnerships, and ensuring that both the construction programme and Activity Plan are well prepared for implementation. As the project enters this exciting new chapter, there is a real sense of anticipation across the team.

I’m delighted to be moving into this next phase look forward to working closely with partners, stakeholders, and the wider community to bring the vision for the Abbey of St Edmund, Reborn to life.

Project Manager Update: June

Project Manager, James Mellish, shares more about building a new generation of guides.

The Abbey of St Edmunds Reborn Project is helping to forge stronger connections between St Edmundsbury Cathedral and the historic town of Bury St Edmunds, with a pioneering guide training programme creating a new generation of ambassadors for both destinations, in conjunction with Bury St Edmunds Tour Guides.

St Edmundsbury Cathedral recently celebrated the accreditation of 11 new White Badge tour guides, formally recognised at a presentation ceremony on 11 June 2026. Approved by the Institute of Tourist Guiding (ITG), the White Badge confirms that guides have the knowledge and skills to confidently lead tours within the Cathedral.

The new White Badge Guides with their certificates.

The accreditation marks the culmination of an intensive training programme that began in January 2026. Participants undertook lectures, extensive independent research and rigorous examinations, including answering 100 questions in just 60 minutes and delivering information at randomly selected locations.

Importantly, this is the first programme of its kind in the country to link White and Green Badge training. Developed through a partnership between St Edmundsbury Cathedral and Bury St Edmunds Tour Guides, the initiative reflects the collaborative spirit at the heart of the Abbey of St Edmunds Reborn Project. The course was led by Mike Dean, Adrian Tindall and Lynn Whitehead of Bury St Edmunds Tour Guides, alongside the Cathedral’s Librarian, who provided specialist expertise on the Cathedral’s rich history and heritage.

The newly accredited guides are already progressing towards Green Badge status, which will enable them to lead tours of the Abbey ruins and the wider town. By creating guides who can interpret both the Cathedral and the wider Abbey precinct, visitors will enjoy a more joined-up experience of Bury St Edmunds’ remarkable heritage.

With the town’s guides handling more than 3,500 bookings annually and both the Cathedral and town attracting national and international recognition, this innovative partnership demonstrates how working together can enrich visitor experiences and ensure the stories of St Edmund’s Abbey continue to inspire future generations.

Project Manager Update: May

Project Manager, James Mellish, talks and The Bury Wildlife Festival 2026

The historic heart of the Abbey Gardens came alive with nature, learning, and community spirit during the hugely successful Bury Wildlife Festival 2026, held on Friday 15 and Saturday 16 May with the Bury Water Meadows Group.

Project Manager James Mellish attending the Bury Wildlife Festival

The festival celebrated the rich biodiversity of the Abbey area while highlighting the urgent importance of climate action and wildlife conservation. Families, students, conservationists, and visitors of all ages gathered to explore how nature can thrive in the centre of our town.

A wide range of inspiring stall holders shared ideas, projects, and practical advice, covering topics from cleaning up local habitats and protecting Suffolk wildlife to creating natural spaces for wildlife at home. Visitors discovered fascinating talks and displays including Prickly Friends in Your Garden at Night, Bury’s Swifts, The Future of Gardening, Rejuvenating Biodiversity in the Abbey Area, and Strings of Beads: The Rivers Lark and Linnet through Bury St Edmunds. The Journey from Trout Lakes to Nature Reserve also showcased the remarkable transformation of local landscapes.

Guided walks proved especially popular throughout the weekend, offering visitors the chance to experience nature first-hand. Activities included Bird Walks, Tree Walks, Incredible Insects, Plant Walks, and the thought-provoking walk exploring how Bury’s Lark Valley has changed over the centuries. Younger visitors enthusiastically joined the family-friendly bug safaris, discovering the miniature wildlife hidden within the Abbey grounds.

The festival continued beyond the weekend with a multi-sensory, interactive exhibition in the South Cloister of St Edmundsbury Cathedral, showcasing the creative response to our natural environment of the 165 primary school children who attended the Festival on Friday 15 May.

Together, the festival demonstrates how heritage, education, and community action can help shape a greener and more sustainable future for Bury St Edmunds.

Project Manager Update: April

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.

Project Manager Update: February/March

Project Manager, James Mellish, talks Delivery Phase Application

A project overview for the application

A £9.8m Delivery Phase application to the National Lottery Heritage Fund has now been submitted for the Abbey of St Edmund Reborn Project – a bold and transformative partnership led by St Edmundsbury Cathedral, West Suffolk Council and English Heritage.

This once-in-a-generation initiative will reunify the 60-acre Abbey site, fragmented since the Dissolution of 1539, re-establishing it as a nationally significant cultural destination.

Building on the momentum of the 2022 Abbey 1000 celebrations, the three-year delivery project positions the Abbey as a powerful place-maker for West Suffolk, driving long-term economic growth and cultural recognition.

Urgent heritage action is required. Conditions surveys confirm increase in structural defects across the ruins due to prolonged exposure, climate change and severe weather. Immediate conservation will stabilise the Abbey ruins bringing them into a sustainable condition for future generations.

A new Visitor Centre will sensitively restore and adapt the 18th-century Anselm Building, and buildings facing the Angel Hill, complemented by a contemporary West Cloister as a connection between Cathedral and Abbey Garden. An improved 1.4km accessible circular route, including new ramps and a ruin viewing point will ensure an inclusive experience for all.

Environmental ambition underpins the project, targeting an 18.5% biodiversity net gain, supporting chalk stream habitats and working toward Net Zero through renewable energy solutions.

Immersive stories of Edmund’s Town, and 47 coordinated activities, including heritage engagement, biodiversity programmes, creative projects and volunteering placements re-animate the Abbey for diverse audiences.

Together, the partnership will deliver a new sustainable business and governance model creating a unified vision to secure the Abbey’s future as a place of heritage, learning and community.

Project Manager Update: January

Project Manager, James Mellish, talks community engagement:

Connecting the community to the Abbey

The Abbey of St Edmund Reborn Project continues to gather momentum, with an ambitious community engagement activity plan at its heart, designed to connect people of all ages and backgrounds with the Abbey’s remarkable heritage, landscape, and living traditions.

Consultation and Partnerships

Our activity plan has been shaped through consultation with a wide range of local partners, including learning providers, health and wellbeing organisations, and community groups. This collaborative approach ensures that activities are inclusive, meaningful, and responsive to local needs, supporting learning, wellbeing, and a deeper connection to place.

Heritage Engagement Activities

The project will deliver heritage engagement activities, offering varied ways to explore and experience the Abbey. These include guided tours, talks, heritage trails, taster sessions, reminiscence events, student-led projects, and pilgrimages, providing opportunities for discovery, reflection, and shared learning.

Biodiversity and Landscape

Nature is central to the Abbey’s story. The activity plan includes biodiversity-focused activities, such as a biodiversity festival, riverland, wetland and grassland conservation projects, and citizen science initiatives. These activities will support ecological recovery while encouraging people to engage with and care for the Abbey’s green spaces.

Archaeology and Discovery

Two archaeology projects will invite communities to uncover the past. A community project will engage youth groups to academics , while a second project will improve the Historic Environment Record, strengthening understanding of the Abbey’s archaeological significance.

Creative Engagement

Creativity will flourish through seven arts-based activities, including music, drama, and visual arts inspired by the Abbey and Cathedral. These will range from intimate workshops to large-scale events and temporary exhibitions, bringing heritage to life through contemporary expression.

Building Skills and Capacity

The project will strengthen long-term capacity through investment in people. Alongside two existing posts, Visitor Experience and Learning Manager, we will recruit three new roles in volunteering, community engagement, and events management. There will be 20 training opportunities, 19 volunteer roles, and 190 new volunteer placements, supported by forums, health networks, internships, and apprenticeships.

Together, these activities will ensure the Abbey of St Edmund Reborn Project leaves a lasting legacy for heritage, nature, and community.