Leicester’s Heritage

Until recently, Leicester was probably one of Britain’s most underrated cities. Certainly, if asked, most people might have a vague awareness of the place but no real idea of what makes it unique.

The discovery of King Richard III under an office car park probably changed all that. What is not often recognised, even by the millions that are now aware thanks to its royal association is that the city is in fact at least 2000 years old, with a history and heritage to match any other city in the country.

Unfortunately, it hasn’t always helped itself, and until recently little thought was given to its promotion as an attraction for the tourist and traveller.

This is a pity because anyone who takes the time to explore the city properly will find fantastic Roman, Saxon, Norman, Medieval, Georgian, Victorian and 20th Century architecture sprinkled throughout.

Leicester Civic Society aims to protect these gems, making them the inspiration and ambition for future developments. This doesn’t mean pickling them in aspic or turning them all into museums – we believe in innovation and inspiration to re-use old buildings and their surroundings as one of the best means of preservation.

As an organisation, we are almost 50 years old, and like many campaigning bodies, the society was formed in order to battle with a local authority that believed a new, bland and nondescript office block should replace a fine Victorian railway station building.

Saving the Midland Railway Station on London Road was the beginning of a number of campaigns to save and preserve the heritage of the city through its historic older buildings.

Through the support of its members, the Civic Society has shown leadership locally in changing attitudes to the value of our older buildings. We will continue to use our influence on policy makers to maintain that positive attitude within the culture of planning and development in Leicester.

In 2005 we began our annual architectural awards scheme, one for restoration and one for new build, which continues to highlight talent for innovation, great design and the role of heritage in the life of our city.