Heritage parks project

With vital support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, we’re taking a major step toward protecting and enhancing the city’s most historic parks - ensuring they remain vibrant, welcoming spaces for everyone to enjoy, now and for generations to come.

Wensum park

Norwich City Council secures £216,000 to protect and celebrate historic parks

We’re proud to announce that Norwich City Council has secured a £216,000 grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund to support a major project focused on protecting and enhancing 18 of our city’s most historic parks and green spaces.

This funding will help us better understand the heritage and potential of these cherished sites, many of which hold Grade II or Grade II* listings and deep cultural significance - such as Eaton Park, Waterloo Park, and Rosary Cemetery, the country’s first non-conformist cemetery. 

Mile Cross

We’ve also committed an additional £10,000 to ensure the success of this initiative, which will:

  • support long-term conservation and protection
  • identify opportunities for restoration and improved visitor experiences
  • engage with the community and volunteer groups to gather insights and ideas

This project is a key part of our ambition to become a ‘Nature City’, placing heritage, biodiversity, and community at the heart of our green spaces.

What’s happening?

We’re currently conducting surveys and feasibility studies across all 18 sites.

These will uncover both visible and hidden heritage features, helping us plan for sustainable restoration and reinterpretation. We’ll also be consulting with local communities to ensure the future of these spaces reflects the needs and values of our residents.

A message from Councillor Emma Hampton

“We know how much the city’s parks mean to our residents, and are committed to protecting their heritage and maximising their potential. This investment will allow us to understand the full potential of these spaces and ensure their long-term future for the enjoyment of residents and visitors alike.”

Parks included in the project

  • Waterloo Park (Grade II*)
  • Eaton Park (Grade II*)
  • Earlham Park (Grade II)
  • Mile Cross Gardens (Grade II)
  • Wensum Park (Grade II)
  • Heigham Park (Grade II)
  • Chapelfield Gardens (Grade II)
  • Ketts Heights (Conservation Area)
  • Mousehold Heath and Britannia Barracks Park (Conservation Area)
  • Rosary Cemetery (Grade II*)
  • Earlham Cemetery (Grade II)
  • James Stuart Gardens (Conservation Area)
  • Pilling Park (Conservation Area)

This initiative builds on our successful history with the National Lottery Heritage Fund, including the restoration of Waterloo and Eaton Parks 25 years ago. Now, we’re looking ahead to secure the future of all our historic parks - for generations to come.

Heritage fund acknowledgement stamp
Feedback button