Citizen magazine Summer 2024 - text version

Message from the leader, Mike Stonard 

We are digesting the implications of our new political landscape and, in particular, looking forward to new opportunities it presents for the city.

No one can have failed to notice that change is in the air, following the election of a new government. We are digesting the implications of this new political landscape and, in particular, looking forward to new opportunities it presents for the city.

This is always a time for the council to look forward, as we enter the new civic year. We have a new community-led plan for the city, called ‘We Are Norwich’. This sets the direction for the next five years. It’s full of big ideas and unashamedly ambitious plans for the city and its residents.

It was developed by wide-reaching engagement. We had over 900 conversations with individuals, and a diverse range of organisations across the city. This was very likely one of the council’s largest ever public consultations. It included street conversations, public and employee surveys, in-depth interviews and focus groups. We asked people what they love about Norwich. We wanted to get a sense of what people really value about the city and want us to protect, as well as what needs to change to make the city a better place to live, work and visit.

You told us that Norwich offers all the advantages of city living while nurturing a genuine and unique sense of belonging. I strongly identify with this. Norwich is where my roots are, and where I’ve chosen to call home.

I hope everyone shares this bond with Norwich. However, I am acutely aware many among us live markedly different lives. Too many residents are grappling with making ends meet, managing their health and feeling disconnected within our community. That means certain people across our communities are sometimes therefore missing out on what Norwich has to offer. But I firmly believe it is within our collective ability to transform Norwich into the best possible place for everyone.

‘We Are Norwich’ wants the very best for everyone, protecting all we love about our amazing city and working to make improvements where needed. It provides the vision, and the framework to make this a reality.