EESBN - Conservation, Ecology and Natural Materials

East of England Sustainable Building Network (EESBN). Breakfast | Networking | Presentation | Q&A Join us for breakfast, networking and expert talks for construction professionals interested in sustainability. For construction industry professionals to make connections, share knowledge and discuss sustainability over breakfast. TOPIC: Restoring Turf Fen Mill: Conservation, Ecology and Natural Materials About UKSBN UKSBN hosts the East of England Sustainable Building Network, a bi-monthly networking and learning opportunity that aims to bring together construction industry and sustainability professionals. It provides a platform for discussions, sharing knowledge, learning ways to increase sustainability in the built environment, and networking opportunities over breakfast, tea and coffee. It aims to drive sustainability in construction, aligning with the UK's goals for Net Zero Carbon by 2050. For each event, we invite different guest speakers to share their perspectives and insights on sustainability through presentations, panel discussions, or Q&A sessions. If you're interested in being a speaker at a future event or have any queries, please get in touch with Lilly Clarke - [email protected]. This event -Monday 5 October 2026 -9:00 am - 11:30 am -The Oak Bar and Terrace, Norwich, NR7 0HH -Networking, seated breakfast and presentation from our speaker Your speakers Paul Kings - Director and Architect at Kings and Dunne Architects Andrew Farrell - Head of External Funding at The Broads Authority The presentation will introduce the Turf Fen Mill restoration project and how working on an ecologically sensitive site is being managed through close control of both contractor activities and detailed material specification. Using the live restoration project as a case study, Paul will explore the challenges of working with a historic structure in an ecologically sensitive and highly unusual location. The session will look at how ecological considerations have influenced the works, alongside the detailed research and material specification required to protect both the listed structure and its surrounding environment. Paul will discuss the use of natural and locally sourced materials, including timber, brick, mortar, linseed paint and replacement metalwork, and how careful specification can support conservation while reducing environmental impact. He will also look at collaboration with organisations including the Broads Authority, Norfolk County Council and Historic England, as well as the practical challenges of delivering a restoration project on a site accessible only by boat. Andrew, from the Broads Authority, will also speak for a short while on the ecological and access issues of the site.