Heritage Grants
The project focuses on three elements:
- improving accessibility and visitor information to the Cathedral
- conversion of two buildings in the precinct into a visitor and heritage centre
- creating a programme of community participation and engagement – with two new staff
Plans include conserving and repairing an unused Grade I listed building and combining with a Grade II listed building to form the new visitor centre.
The project will also focus on improving community involvement by developing a programme of community learning and engagement activities and extending volunteering opportunities. A new volunteer coordinator will set up a training programme to encourage more volunteers, and a new classroom assistant will help with the planning, management and delivery of a new education programme.
The 13th century West Front is one of the most striking Gothic constructions in Europe, with a tiny late 14th century porch built into the middle arch.
The Grade I listed Knights’ Chamber, which will be part of the new visitor centre, was formerly decorated with pictures of knights who met there. Outside, it still features a gabled 13th/14th century gateway, with a statue of King Edward.