“Creating a hub that brings people together”: The Viking Centre wins 2025 Enhancement Award
We’re delighted to share that Paul Robinson Project, The Viking Centre – located in Sprowston, Norwich – has been recognised with the Broadland District Council Enhancement Award 2025. Presented as part of their Design and Enhancement Awards, which celebrate the district’s most outstanding architectural achievements, the Enhancement Award acknowledges a project that has extended, repaired or repurposed an existing building in a way that enhances its character and benefits the wider community.
Paul Robinson Partnership’s Steve Lucas and Martyn Riches led the design to transform the former Viking pub and restaurant from a vacant, derelict building into a vibrant community hub for Sprowston Town Council.
Funded through Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) payments, the scheme combined sensitive refurbishment with a bold new, almost 2,000 square feet, rear extension that now houses a flexible community hall with kitchen, storage, and toilets.
Project Information
Client
Guy Ranaweera
Sprowston Town Council
Project Lead / Planning Consultant
Jason Menezes & Barhav Said
Bidwells
Main Contractor
David Amies & Carl Fox
Draper & Nichols
Architectural Designers
Steve Lucas & Martyn Riches
Paul Robinson Partnership (UK) LLP
Mechanical and Electrical Consultant
Ben Ling
BWL Consulting (EAST) Ltd
Within the original building, the scheme saw the creation of two self-contained function rooms, and an office suite to provide adaptable spaces for local community groups and businesses. At the heart of the reimagined centre, there is now a café and social hub, Longboats and Lattes, and a community upcycling shop that positions The Viking Centre as a centre for community connection and enterprise.
The conversion respects the site’s heritage, whilst transforming a once severely neglected building into one that meets the modern needs of the surrounding community. A fabric-first approach, supported by measures such as photovoltaic panels, air-source heat pump and electric vehicle charging, has allowed us to retain the building’s character while significantly improving its performance and long-term sustainability.
Steve and Martyn were presented with the award on Friday 14th November 2025, and councillors involved in the presentation said:
“The Viking Centre showcases thoughtful design and high-quality construction, blending modern functionality with a welcoming atmosphere. Its conversion honours the building’s heritage while breathing new life into the space – creating a hub that brings people together, supports local initiatives, and reflects the spirit of Sprowston.”
“All the councillors were very impressed with the thought that had gone into the conversion of the building and making it very functional and useful for the community. Many members commented in particular about the hall roof, and the careful thought given to making the building very user-friendly, such as the individual toilets and kitchens for each space, plus the sound system and acoustics, and the key elements such as the community shop.”
Working closely together with Bidwells and the Principal Contractor Draper & Nichols, it was an honour for Paul Robinson Partnership to bring this scheme to life for Sprowston Town Council, and their residents. To be awarded for our efforts is a rewarding bonus.