Nearly 80 percent of respondents of the recent consultation of the council’s market plans support the proposals for improvements to Norwich Market according to a report released today (PDF).
Findings from Get Talking Norwich show strong endorsement for measures to improve the 900‑year‑old market, including its new layout and proposals for new stalls at the rear of the market. It also highlighted concerns about anti‑social behaviour and the impact of pigeons on cleanliness.
Councillor Carli Harper, cabinet member for finance and major projects said: “It’s clear we’ve got massive support for the general thrust of our plans to make our medieval market among the best not only in the UK but Europe.
“We will address people’s concerns and will move fast to finalise the proposals which will retain our market’s historic character while making it fit for the future so it can attract shoppers and tourists from all over the East Anglia, England and beyond!”
The consultation on the proposed design received 691 survey responses, alongside on-site engagement sessions and trader discussions, bringing the total number of responses to 3,503 across the wider project – a record for a consultation on a single theme for the council. Its key findings are:
- 78% support for the proposed layout and 78% for rear stalls. Respondents broadly supported increased seating due to the new layout and the new rear stalls provided changes avoid congestion, protect trader visibility and retain the market’s distinctive character. Key concerns included security, anti-social behaviour, maintenance standards and ensuring seating if fully accessible for a wide range of users
- Toilets (86% support). There was clear support for the toilet renovation, with priorities around cleanliness, safety (CCTV and attendants) and more inclusive facilities. Respondents raised concerns about the shared lobby design and emphasised the need to increase provision for women to reduce queues and improve accessibility.
- 67% support for plans to improve wayfinding. There was strong support for clearer maps, colour-coded aisles and more intuitive signage. However, there was notable opposition to the large “Norwich Market” sign, with many preferring a heritage-sensitive option. Residents suggested involving local artists in developing signage that reflects Norwich’s character.
- Maintenance, pigeons, cleanliness and security – 74% support for improved lighting and CCTV. Anti-social behaviour, pigeon mess and general cleanliness were recurring concerns. Respondents strongly favoured improvements to lighting, CCTV and ongoing maintenance, as well as better pest-resistant design, cleaning schedules and methods to discourage pigeon feeding.
- The Undercroft (65% support). While people generally supported improving the Undercroft and providing extra trader storage, many stressed the importance of retaining cultural and community use. Alongside addressing damp, lighting and accessibility issues.
The feedback will shape the next stage of design development, with a strong focus on accessibility, safety, maintenance, the cultural role of The Undercroft and preserving the character that makes Norwich Market distinctive. Final plans will be unveiled later this year for submission to the council’s planning committee.
Councillor Harper added: “We will also be looking to run an artists’ competition for a design of the market gateway and we will be unveiling plans to address the concerns over anti-social behaviour and the handful of people feeding pigeons at our beloved market and war memorial.”
