A Norfolk town with origins dating back to the Saxon era has secured funding to identify its most historic assets. 

Breckland Council is putting together a new set of rules to protect Dereham's key buildings and streets.

The project has been backed by Historic England, which has granted £15,000 to support these initial steps to update guidelines for people seeking to make improvements and alterations to properties in the town. 

While many of the town's earliest buildings were destroyed by a fire in the 17th century, the magnificent church of St Nicholas and Bishop Bonner's cottage remain today as living reminders of its rich history.

New rules have already been implemented following similar reviews in Thetford and Swaffham, where Breckland Council has leveraged hundreds of thousands of pounds in funding for regeneration. 

Bishop Bonner's Cottage MuseumBishop Bonner's Cottage Museum (Image: Matthew Usher) Paul Claussen, cabinet member at Breckland Council for economic growth, said: "This is a significant milestone for Dereham. 

"This scheme will not only help protect the town’s rich heritage but will also support local businesses and communities in contributing to the town's long-term economic vitality."

The funding from Historic England will be used to draw up a new 'cultural masterplan' to provide updated documentation of Dereham’s architectural and historical assets, ensuring that key buildings, streets, and areas of significance are protected.

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St Nicholas Church, DerehamSt Nicholas Church, Dereham (Image: Ian Burt) The new guidance, which is being reviewed for the first time in 50 years, will also identify historic shopfronts and community buildings most in need of restoration. 

Tony Calladine, regional director for Historic England, said: "I’m pleased we are supporting Breckland Council in their continued efforts to improve their historic market towns.  

"Projects such as these are important as they not only provide clarity for locals residents, businesses and decision makers but also develop a greater understanding of what makes the conservation area special, and in so doing they help to identify opportunities for enhancing Dereham's buildings and streetscape."