About AAG

Abbey Action Group is an independent, non-party-political resident and community organisation supporting people affected by major change on the Abbey Estate in Thetford.

The Abbey Estate is one of Thetford’s largest residential communities, with around 1,100 homes. Current regeneration proposals involve the proposed demolition and redevelopment of approximately 550 existing homes, alongside the addition of around 500 further homes across the estate area.

We are not against regeneration, investment or new homes. We recognise that the Abbey Estate needs improvement and that residents deserve safe, high-quality housing, better local facilities and a positive future for the area.

But change on this scale must be fair, transparent and shaped around the people already living here. Existing residents should not be left worse off, pushed aside, or left uncertain about their homes, families, parking, wellbeing, support networks or future.

The scale and complexity of the proposals has increased the need for clear, accessible and trusted resident support, particularly for older residents, digitally excluded residents, families, residents with health or mobility needs, and residents whose first language is not English.

Many residents have told us they find it difficult to access official information, navigate digital systems, understand public processes and identify where to get support. Community feedback has also highlighted increased anxiety, uncertainty, isolation and reduced confidence when engaging with official bodies and online systems.

AAG was formed to help address these gaps by improving access to information, strengthening community cohesion, and supporting residents to engage confidently and constructively with issues affecting their neighbourhood, homes and wellbeing.

We support residents through:

• clear information about the planning and appeal process

• help preparing personal and relevant appeal representations

• support for elderly, vulnerable and digitally excluded residents

• accessibility and language support where possible

• community wellbeing, cohesion and resident participation

• practical help, volunteering and local resident resources

• highlighting the real-life impact of uncertainty, disruption and long-term change

Our work is rooted in community support, not party politics. Any funding or donations received are used to support community information, accessibility, wellbeing and resident support activities.

We believe regeneration should improve lives without leaving existing residents worse off.

The Abbey Estate is not just land marked for redevelopment. It is a living community built over generations. Our aim is to make sure that community is listened to, respected and properly protected.

What We Do

AAG is not only focused on the planning appeal. We also take practical action to support the estate, improve local conditions and strengthen community life.

Our work includes:

• helping residents understand the planning and appeal process

• supporting people to submit personal and relevant appeal comments

• putting up bat boxes on the estate to support local wildlife

• reporting fly-tipping and environmental issues to the council

• pushing for better bin provision and more regular servicing

• supporting resident wellbeing, accessibility and digital inclusion

• helping elderly, vulnerable and digitally excluded residents access information

• encouraging volunteering and community involvement

• protecting community cohesion and local pride

We believe strong communities are built through both advocacy and practical action.

That means standing up for residents when major decisions are being made, while also helping improve everyday life on the estate now.