The Norfolk Churches Evaluation Project

Norfolk has long been celebrated for its extraordinary number of churches: nearly 1000 medieval foundations are recorded, of which over 600 are still in use. In addition to these Anglican sites, approximately 650 nonconformist sites are known from the county and, although the number of Roman Catholic churches is small, some are of exceptional architectural importance. This diversity makes the county a valuable study-area for the evaluation of church management and conservation strategies and EH commissioned the Norfolk Archaeological Unit of the Norfolk Field Archaeology Division to undertake the Norfolk Churches Evaluation Project. The main aims of the study are to evaluate the various means of protection and conservation that apply to church sites of all denominations, to assess the different types of documentary information available, and to analyse how important decisions affecting the survival and condition of these buildings are made.

Initially the study involved the compilation of a database of all bodies involved in the management of churches and church sites, and the current management regimes at those sites. These vary widely, including bodies organised within denominations, local authorities, national organisations (such as the Churches Conservation Trust), and local trusts (such as the Norfolk Historic Churches Trust or the Norwich Historic Churches Trust). A rapid assessment of the available documentary sources was followed by a phase of intensive consultation. Information was gathered from representatives of every church, specialist, or local authority interest group in a series of interviews. The results were tabulated and assessed and the final report makes a series of recommendations, the most significant of which urged the creation of a Church Heritage Management Database. As well as providing easier access to information for all parties involved in a decision-making process, such a database would also lead to more effective applications for appropriate grant aid and other funding. The report is currently subject to internal consultation within EH.