CBG Consultants are proud to share that one of their projects, Becket’s Chapel in Wymondham, has been named the winner of the prestigious 2025 Civic Trust AABC Conservation Awards, acknowledging the team’s commitment to the preservation and thoughtful modernisation of one of Norfolk’s most important historic buildings.
Established in 2014, the Civic Trust AABC Conservation Awards highlight outstanding projects that exemplify the highest standards of historic building conservation. Only four projects received this acknowledgement, and Becket’s Chapel was one of these, alongside exceptional landmarks including the Elizabeth Tower and Westminster Hall. These awards celebrate schemes that not only respect the significance of historic architecture, but also demonstrate the skills, sensitivity and innovation required to ensure their adaptive re-use for future generations. A Grade I listed building with origins as early as the 12th century, Becket’s Chapel is a treasured architectural asset within the Wymondham community. However, it was added to the Heritage at Risk register in 2018 following years of neglect from a lack of funding. Due to the poor condition of the building, it required urgent and careful repair as part of a refurbishment undertaking to upgrade the building. In the autumn of 2022, the chapel was acquired by Historic Norfolk and CBG Consultants were enlisted to deliver full MEP (Mechanical, Electrical and Public Health Engineering) services as part of a wider project led by Architect Studio Ltd.
CBG’s involvement in the restoration of Becket’s Chapel included a comprehensive building services condition survey, followed by the development of a prioritised repair strategy. The project placed a strong focus on sustainability, futureproofing, and ensuring the chapel’s return to regular use as an inviting space for a community hub. Key elements of CBG’s work included conducting a Low Zero Carbon (LZC) analysis, exploring options such as Ground and Air Source Heat Pumps and Solar PV to reduce operational carbon emissions. Thermal dynamic modelling was carried out using IES software to assess heat loss scenarios and inform effective solutions. Additionally, a new underfloor heating system was installed, designed to integrate with future LZC technologies. CBG also updated the electrical systems, replacing lighting, power, and data services with discreet upgrades that maintained the chapel’s aesthetic while enabling flexible use. To further enhance safety, new fire safety systems (fire alarm and emergency lighting) were installed to meet current standards.
The judges commented, “In preserving Becket’s Chapel, this initiative showcases how conservation can harmonise tradition and modernity, ensuring that historic buildings continue to enrich the community for generations to come.”
Today, Becket’s Chapel is once again open and accessible to the public, hosting events ranging from concerts and weddings to community markets and art exhibitions. The project has been instrumental in ensuring the chapel is not only preserved but also restored as a key cultural and civic space in the heart of the town.
Eddie Ireson, Principal Engineer at CBG Consultants, said, “It was great to be involved with this project and seeing Becket’s Chapel restored to full functionality is very rewarding. We are thrilled our contribution has been publicly recognised by winning this great accolade.”
Project credits:
Conservation Architect - The Architect Studio Ltd
Client – Historic Norfolk
Quantity Surveyor - Andrew Morton Associates
Structural Engineer -Conisbee
Services Engineer - CBG Consultants
Main Contractor -Greystone and Mason
Archaeologist - Pre-Construct Archaeology
Ecology Consultant - Wild Frontier Ecology
CDM - Philip Waller Consulting
Funding Partner - Historic England + Architectural Heritage Fund
Local Authority - South Norfolk District Council
Environmental Consultant - Tobit Curteis Associates LLP
Retrofit Assessor - NDM Heath Ltd
About CBG Consultants
CBG Consultants are an ambitious practice of building services consultants, covering a wide range of mechanical and electrical engineering solutions specialising in sustainability, building physics and Passivhaus.
In 2023, they established a new lighting consultancy division with the acquisition of Light Perceptions Ltd, so that they could offer their clients a more comprehensive service. They specialise in maximising the efficiency of buildings, through optimising fabric with efficient mechanical and electrical design solutions.
Their vision is to be a leading consultancy delivering excellence in building physics and engineering for better buildings that benefit their occupants and the environment - CBG Consultants - Building Services & Building Physics
