Heartsease Estate, Norwich facts for kids

Tall buildings called tower blocks in Heartsease.

Heartsease is a large neighbourhood in Norwich, Norfolk, England. It's known as a housing estate, which means it's a planned area with many homes. The name "Heartsease" comes from a pretty wild flower often found in Europe.

Where is Heartsease?

Heartsease is about 2.5 miles (4 km) north-east of Norwich city centre. It has clear boundaries around it. Heartsease Lane is on its west side. Woodside Road is to the east. Plumstead Road B1140 forms the southern edge. Salhouse Road is on the northern side.

History of Heartsease

Heartsease was once farmland near Mousehold Heath. In the early 1900s, the Norfolk Regiment used it for training. In October 1914, the Royal Flying Corps took it over. It became RAF Mousehold Heath, an air base.

From Airfield to Airport

By 1933, this site became the first Norwich Airport. However, by WW2, it was no longer in use. Some companies that built aircraft were based there. One well-known company was Boulton and Paul.

Building the Estate

After World War II, work began to build the Heartsease estate. Most of the homes were finished by the mid-1950s. Many houses are terraced, meaning they are joined in rows. There are also two-storey blocks of flats and maisonettes. In the 1960s, three tall tower blocks were added. More homes were built in the years that followed.

St Francis Church

The church in Heartsease is named after St Francis of Assisi. It was designed by J P Chaplin and opened in 1957. The church is in the middle of the estate on Rider Haggard Road. A bronze sculpture of St Francis decorates the front of the church.

Schools in Heartsease

Heartsease High School was part of the original plan for the estate. Later, a new school called the Open Academy replaced it. The Open Academy moved into new buildings in September 2010. This new school cost £21 million to build.

Local Shops and Services

The Heartsease estate has many useful places for its residents. These include areas with shops. There are also two churches and schools. There used to be a pub, but it is now closed. The estate provides essential services for the community.

Famous People from Heartsease

• Stuart Ashen is a comedian and internet personality. He is known for reviewing many products. He is also a writer, actor, and animator.