A social enterprise's goal of owning the historic building it currently leases is a step closer as its fundraising campaign nears £50,000.
In October 2023, The Shoebox Community Hub was given notice by the landlord to leave its Castle Meadow base.
They had initially been required to leave the site in April 2024, but due to an outpouring of community support the lease was extended until the end of 2026.
In February, they launched a Crowdfunder campaign to raise money for a mortgage deposit to buy the building and secure its long-term future.
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The Shoebox's commercial activities fund various community projects and staying at this location means they can continue to run their popular tours of the historic 'hidden street' below the building.
Originally built into the Norwich Castle ditch, it features architecture dating from the 15th century.
Since launching the Crowdfunder page eight weeks ago, they have raised more than £49,000.
Lisa Willett, customer experience manager, said: “We’ve been blown away by the support we have received.
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"If someone had told us six months ago that we would be in this position now, we simply wouldn’t have believed them."
The next steps will see The Shoebox apply for a commercial mortgage and approach the landlord with an offer to buy the building.
Donations are welcome until April 30 2024 at crowdfunder.co.uk/p/hidden-street-norwich
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