£3.2m historic building refurb set to move forward

A multimillion-pound plan to restore and refurbish a prominent building in King's Lynn is set to move forward.

West Norfolk councillors are expected to approve a £3.2m contract to carry out work on the 17th Century Custom House in May.

A lift will improve accessibility in the building, which will feature displays on the history of the town, along with a small cafe and exhibition space.

"It's important for us to make sure that we make proper use of this building," said Simon Ring, the council's independent deputy leader.

Built in 1683, the Custom House is one of the best-known landmarks in King's Lynn and most recently housed the tourist information centre.

However, that was moved out in 2019 after part of a ceiling collapsed.

When the town was awarded £25m of Town Deal funding from the government, the council revealed plans to bring the building back into use.

Works planned include a new platform lift, toilets and other refurbishments, with £2.77m of the cost covered by the government cash.

According to a report for councillors, cabinet members will choose a contractor next month.

"It's been a building that has not been open and accessible for many, many years," said Ring.

"Whilst it might not become the tourist information centre again, it will still be the signposting building for all the heritage assets in King's Lynn… you cannot overstate the importance of the Custom House."

Once the contract is awarded, it is expected that work on the building will take place from May to April next year.

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