Have your say on the future of Norwich Lanes area
Today (Monday 12 July 2021) sees the launch of a major consultation on the future of the Norwich Lanes as Norfolk County Council and the Transport for Norwich (TfN) partnership ask for your views on a series of proposals to change how the area functions and feels. ‘Connecting the Norwich Lanes’ is a range of inter-connected schemes which make up the overall vision for the area. The proposals include; a new riverside footbridge between Duke Street and St Georges Street, making the temporary measures to remove general traffic on St Benedicts Street and Exchange Street permanent, a new cycle track and crossing facilities on St Andrews Street and creating a better environment for enjoying the St Giles Street area on foot. Councillor Martin Wilby, Norfolk County Council’s cabinet member for highways, infrastructure and transport, and chair of the Transport for Norwich Joint Committee said: “‘Connecting the Norwich Lanes’ is a programme of measures that aim to make it safer and easier to get around on foot or by bike, support opportunities for outdoor hospitality, boost the local economy and improve air quality. “All residents and businesses within the area impacted by the proposals have been written to directly and we are also running a wider campaign to raise awareness of the consultation and encourage people to have their say. “We’ve listened to feedback from stakeholders while the temporary measures on Exchange Street and St Benedict Street have been in place and have sought to address any concerns in what’s been put forward but this is just one aspect of the overall vision for the area. “The programme brings together projects funded by DfT’s Transforming Cities Fund with those from other sources and we want everyone to see them in context and help shape the future of this fantastic city asset and important destination for residents and visitors alike.” Norwich City Council councillor Mike Stonard, cabinet member for inclusive and sustainable growth, said: “I welcome this opportunity for the public to comment on these proposals. “This is another important step in making Norwich more pedestrian and cycle friendly, that contributes to cleaner air and helps boost footfall, which leads to local economy growth. “The St Giles street proposal is part of our ambitious Norwich Town Deal Public Realm project, and set to benefit from government funding, while the city council-led River Wensum Strategy partnership has helped to develop the riverside footbridge scheme – it’s fantastic to be part of such a collaborate effort to make the city an even more inviting place to live and visit.”
Cllr Jamie Osborn, who represents the area for both council’s said: “Many residents have spoken to me about the need for cleaner air and healthier, low-carbon modes of transport after the experience of lockdown. The proposals to make the Norwich Lanes area more connected for walking and cycling is a step towards that positive vision. The vision to reclaim space for people in the heart of Norwich is exciting, and something that I am sure the public will want to have a say on.”
Jonty Young, spokesman of the Norwich Lanes Association said: “”There are some really interesting ideas here and the Norwich Lanes Association certainly hope that as many local businesses, residents and regular visitors to the area, take part in this consultation.”
Stefan Gurney, Executive Director of the Norwich Business Improvement District (BID) said: “This is a bold proposal for a much-loved part of the city, and we’d encourage everyone – particularly the businesses in the area – to feed into discussions about ‘Connecting the Lanes’. Accessibility and transport are key to the city centre economy and trading. Looking to the future, the ability to adapt will only make Norwich more resilient, and these plans have the potential to be an exciting development for the Norwich Lanes. Norwich BID will take into account our businesses perspectives and input our views, in order to do ensure this proposal is right for the city.” The public are invited to view the plans on the project website www.norfolk.gov.uk/norwichlanes and comment on the proposals overall or the detailed changes proposed in each area via the online surveys. The consultation will run for 4 weeks until Monday 9 August. Hard copies and alternative formats can be provided on request from Norfolk County Council’s main switchboard and virtual meetings via Zoom or telephone are also being offered to answer questions and discuss the proposals in more detail. All feedback received will be analysed and, where appropriate, the plans revised in response before reporting back to local councillors along with the final proposals for scheme delivery. The web page above will be kept up to date with the latest information, progress and any relevant committee dates.