Understanding the structure of Bury St Edmunds town centre

The unique historic legacy of a Norman Grid street layout for Bury St Edmunds and the former Abbey has created a number of distinctive and memorable spaces. However, public consultation suggests that this can cause confusion and make it hard for people to easily and comfortably find their way around, particularly if visiting for the first time. It also makes the town centre seem much larger than it is because it is not obvious how to get from one location to another.

In order to help better understand the town centre the draft Bury St Edmunds Town Centre Masterplan (MAP) proposes a clear structure. This structure recognises different town centre Character Areas that are identifiable through their appearance, historical interest or the uses that take place there. These Character Areas are for the purpose of the MAP only.

Together this helps reinforce movement, activity and places in the town centre making the MAP work for everyone.

Bury St Edmunds town centre map