It has fought to protect historically significant buildings and landmarks across the city for the last 100 years. 

And this lunchtime, the Norwich Society met at the 14th-century Bishop's Bridge, where the movement started a century ago after the society stopped it from being demolished as part of a road and river widening proposal by the local authority.

Norwich Evening News: Elm Hill in Norwich which was saved after pressure from the Norwich Society in the 1920s.Elm Hill in Norwich which was saved after pressure from the Norwich Society in the 1920s. (Image: John Dye)

Since then its members have helped save Elm Hill, the Assembly House and Tombland, among other historical buildings as well as highlighting important architecture in the city through design awards.

 

Its chairman, Barry Howell, said the organisation was as important today as it was when it was set up and hopes to be around for the next 100 years.

Norwich Evening News: Norwich Society chairman Barry HowellNorwich Society chairman Barry Howell (Image: Newsquest)

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He said: "We were first created as a pressure group to stop what was deemed to be architectural vandalism but over time we have changed.

"A lot of what we do is educate people. We are trying to get people to think about the impact of climate change on the city.

"We know there are monetary constraints and there will always be compromise with development but it needs to enhance the city, not damage it.

"Norwich is a great asset. If you have a nice city to live, work and play in, that would create inward investment."

Norwich Evening News: Members of the whifflers in the procession on Bishop's Bridge, Norwich, to mark the start of centenary celebrations for the Norwich Society on March 23, 2023Members of the whifflers in the procession on Bishop's Bridge, Norwich, to mark the start of centenary celebrations for the Norwich Society on March 23, 2023 (Image: Sophie Wyllie)

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He added the city had a rich architectural heritage spanning 1,000 years and the society is opposing the redevelopment proposals for Anglia Square by developers Weston Homes and site owner Columbia Threadneedle because of the height of the proposals.

Norwich Evening News: Members of the whifflers in the procession on Bishop's Bridge, Norwich, to mark the start of centenary celebrations for the Norwich Society on March 23, 2023Members of the whifflers in the procession on Bishop's Bridge, Norwich, to mark the start of centenary celebrations for the Norwich Society on March 23, 2023 (Image: Sophie Wyllie)

Mr Howell added: "It's fair to say the relationship between the society and Norwich City Council has been a bit of a rollercoaster but the bond that ties us together is strong enough for future projects." 

At the centenary event launch, Lord Mayor of Norwich Dr Kevin Maguire, said: "Norwich needs the Norwich Society.

"We must have alternative views in society. They help us think."