Citizen magazine Winter 2024 - text version

Message from the leader, Mike Stonard

I wanted to use my leader’s column in this issue to talk about something really important for Norwich – all the major projects happening across the city and why they matter so much.  

Firstly, the incredible transformation of Hay Hill. Recently opened to the public, this is one of eight local projects that we secured £25 million worth of central government funding for.

As a result Hay Hill is now a vibrant, accessible area which can be enjoyed by everyone. Since it reopened, feedback has been so positive about what this has added to our city centre.

Meanwhile, Townsend House (the modern building to the rear of Anglia Television) is being transformed into a digital hub. When it opens, in spring 2025, it will be a major milestone in our mission to make Norwich a digital and creative powerhouse, to create local jobs in the industries of the future.

Located in a different part of the city is Norwich Livestock Market – something with a long and rich history. It occupies land off Hall Road and holds fortnightly cattle and sheep sales.

We have a legal duty to provide a livestock market but we are seeking a change in the law to give us the option of being able to relocate a new facility outside of the city’s boundary to better meet the current demands of such an important facility, including the people it serves and livelihoods it supports throughout our farming communities.

Much more recognisable to many is The Halls. Our wonderful Grade I listed building is undergoing a major renovation to create a high-quality, multi-use performance venue. This will be complete next year.

Moving on to Anglia Square – at the time of going to print, the council had been in talks to acquire the site so it can be comprehensively regenerated – providing new homes and jobs for local people.

All of these landmark projects show the council’s unwavering commitment to investing serious money in our incredible city and the services we provide. We must put Norwich on the map to attract external investors – and those who share our aspirations to create a prosperous city, a fair city and a city where everyone has an equal opportunity to thrive.