The official centenary year launch started on Bishop Bridge, mid-day on Thursday 23rd March 2023. The Trustees were joined by the Mayor of Norwich, The Sheriff of Norwich, Sir Richard Jewson and the Whifflers, together with members and representatives of organisations who have worked closed with the Society over the years.

In 1923 a group of architects and archaeologists met to discuss their concerns that the City authorities proposed to replace the medieval Bishop Bridge with a wider one to accommodate increased traffic and to replace the river piers with one span to improve the river flow and guard against flooding. Having successfully protected the bridge by having it listed by the national Ministry of Works they also instigated preservation orders on other historic Norwich structures including the Cathedral and buildings in its Close, the Castle, the Guildhall and many more.

Out of this concern to preserve the best of the past The Norwich Society was formed. It aimed to ensure that during the admirable post-war drive for slum clearance, road widening, and other improvements to the city, historically and architecturally significant structures were not swept away.

One hundred years on The Norwich Society is celebrating a century of civic achievement whilst at the same time looking to the future and the role of The Norwich Society in helping ensure Norwich remains a well-loved and vibrant City.

If you'd like to find out more about Bishop Bridge READ HERE