Friars Quay (Norwich)

Friars Quay (Norwich)

Friars Quay is a residential development which is recognised internationally as an outstanding example of a high density, high quality urban design of the 1970s. The development is located in the Colegate area at the centre of Norwich, Norfolk, bounded on one side by the River Wensum and by a park and two notable bridges to the east and west. Several historic churches surround the site creating an attractive and varied landscape.

The original design consists of an arrangement of terraces that include a series of open spaces winding through the scheme culminating in a principal space facing water stairs and a ramp to the Wensum. Elevations are economical in conception with a richness in variety and spacing. There is simple paving and the use of rolled gravel in the surfaces to the highways and communal areas. The development was the subject of an article in the Architectural Review.

In recognition of the quality of the design Norwich City Council proposed in early 2004 to apply for Article 4 (2) Direction in order to reinforce the covenants that exist on the development. In April 2007 the City Council indicated that it would not proceed with Article 4 Direction but would instead place the development on its list of buildings of architectural importance. Friars Quay forms part of the City Centre Conservation area.

In the 1970s Norwich City Council was seeking ways to encourage people to live in the centre of historic Norwich. Friars Quay was built on the former Jewsons Timber Yard.

City of Norwich formed a partnership with local developer RG Carter Ltd., to redevelop this prominent city centre industrial site. The scheme consists of 40 four and five bedroom townhouses and 9 ground floor flats.

On 3 May 1972 planning permission was given for "the development of a builders' merchants premises by the construction of roads, footpaths and 24 parking spaces and the erection of forty houses (22 with integral garages) at Colegate". Included in the reasons for granting planning permission was "to protect and improve the amenity of the area, and ensure the maximum public use of the riverside".

The architect responsible for the design was David Luckhurst of Feilden & Mawson, who succeeded in redeveloping the area in sympathy with the surroundings. The development still remains distinctive and visually striking due to the highly pitched roof style. The award winning project is still quoted as an exemplary development for city centre schemes 30 years after its completion.

The scale of the architect's achievement can be seen in the fact that, after 30 years, no other riverside development in Norwich remotely approaches Friars Quay in either its distinctiveness or its unique visual signature. It was seen as being very avant-garde at the time of building and has taken several years to be accepted as desirable residences.

The development remains an attractive place to live, with its central location and riverside views. The generous design of the open spaces is especially appreciated by residents and visitors.

Friars Quay has a very active Residents Association which has been involved in discussions regarding conservation.