The Coal Barn by the quay in Thornham, near Hunstanton, has long enchanted film makers and locals alike, serving as a picturesque relic of the area's maritime history. However, the structural integrity of this 300-year-old building is now under scrutiny, as significant masonry collapse has left a large hole in its side. This frightening development has prompted West Norfolk Council to consider enforcement action after receiving complaints about the site’s untidy state.
Recent inspections have revealed fallen bricks and rubble littering the quayside adjacent to the harbour, leading authorities to contemplate a Section 215 notice under planning laws, effectively ordering the owner to restore the site. While a council spokesman confirmed that no formal notice has yet been served, they acknowledged that the situation is "still under consideration."
Concerns about the Coal Barn's condition have persisted for over a year, with the local parish council expressing fears about safety, particularly for children fishing in the vicinity. The council's minutes reveal that they have attempted to communicate safety concerns to the building's owner; however, there has been no response. The deputy leader of Norfolk County Council, Andrew Jamieson, has remarked on the local government’s goodwill, expressing hope for a solution that ensures the preservation of this iconic structure for future generations.
The significance of the Coal Barn stretches back to its origins when it was instrumental in storing coal delivered by ships from north-eastern collieries. The structure is one of the last remaining vestiges of what was once a thriving harbour, which began to decline in the early 20th century as transportation evolved toward railway systems. Notably, the coal barn was a filming location for a BBC adaptation of Charles Dickens' "Great Expectations" in 1998, highlighting its cultural importance.
Despite multiple attempts to repurpose the building over the years—such as plans to convert it into an art studio in 2007 and a proposed home in 2014—none have come to fruition. The latter was notably rejected due to flooding concerns, even with the barn's elevated position on a knoll. More recently, the owner indicated intentions to carry out repairs after the latest incident of masonry fall, as reported to the parish council. However, with the building now fenced off for safety reasons, the urgency for decisive action has grown.
Local sentiment strongly favours not only maintaining the structure but also finding a viable solution to revitalize it in a manner that respects its historical significance. The ongoing inaction raises questions about the balance between heritage conservation and public safety, emphasizing the need for swift and effective collaboration among stakeholders to secure the future of the beloved Coal Barn.
As discussions and considerations unfold, the fate of this cherished landmark hangs in the balance, embodying the community's hope for thoughtful preservation amidst escalating deterioration.
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Source: Noah Wire Services