Alan Boswell Group to restore Norwich's historic 'Number 100'

An historic building in the heart of Norwich is being restored to its former glory, thanks to the Alan Boswell Group. The move also signifies a major expansion for the Group and will lead to new job opportunities. Number 100 Prince of Wales Road is currently a somewhat dilapidated and run-down empty office that's easy to miss, on the corner of St Faith's Lane opposite Mercy Night Club.

Over the years its been 'enhanced' by various extensions but, despite appearances, experts agree that when it was built, in the late 19th century, it was a prestigious address - which is why it now enjoys locally listed status.

It's not only the architecture that is historically interesting: for a significant part of its life Number 100 has been home to businesses that have played a part in the growth of Norwich's prominent financial services sector.

So it's highly appropriate that Norwich's largest independent insurance and financial services company should now be stepping in, in the building's hour of need.

However, it's business rather than philanthropy that has prompted the Alan Boswell Group's move. "We need the extra space," confirms managing director Alan Boswell. "The company is expanding and we've simply run out of room at our Harbour House head office." With 5000 sq metres of floor space, the building will have room for up to 50 staff. One or two departments will be moving from the head office in Thorpe Road to the new offices but, with room for new recruits, the building will also give scope for the Group's future business plans.

Number 100 is a good fit for the Alan Boswell Group for several reasons. "The site is closer to the city centre than Harbour House, so customers who want to can easily walk in for meetings," says Alan Boswell. "The complete building (including a three-storey extension) is big enough to give us plenty of room to expand - and moving some staff down from Harbour House will free up space there, too."

The renovation work required to bring Number 100 up to scratch will be extensive. As well as reviving the exterior, with its ornate quoin detailing and embellished brickwork, the Alan Boswell Group will be introducing 21st century technology (and comforts) to the interior.

Planned highlights range from an informal meeting space-cum-breakout area, where visitors can relax in comfy chairs with a coffee while they discuss business with advisers, to a state of the art seminar and training room.

The purchase of Number 100 means the Alan Boswell Group now has four offices, with the company HQ at Harbour House on Thorpe Road, Norwich and offices in Attleborough and Bury St Edmunds. The company currently employs over 160 staff.

For more information visit Alanboswell.com.