15 September 2021
Protecting Biodiversity Most Important for Norwich East Residents
A survey carried out by planners who are creating a masterplan for a site in the east of Norwich has shown that protecting biodiversity and wildlife is the top priority for local people.
At a meeting of Norwich City Council’s Sustainable Development Panel yesterday, councillors heard that other priorities and concerns were flooding and ecology, traffic impacts and the impact of development on the character of Trowse village.
Speaking after the meeting, Thorpe Hamlet councillor, Lesley Grahame said:
“The top issues raised by local residents in the consultation were wildlife, heritage and sustainable travel which all need to be taken into account by planners, consultants and the city council. The master planners are talking about sustainable conmnections for sustainable communities and I hope these excellent key principles are followed in this very special place.”
Councillor Grahame had mentioned one of the area’s prominent structures during the meeting, saying:
“One of the key principles is about sustainable connections and I’m wondering if the Trowse Swing Bridge will be part of the plan. As well as the walking and cycling network, good rail and bus services will be important as well. We need to absolutely minimise the demand for new roads.”
Councillor Grahame’s concerns about traffic were echoed by her colleague, Green councillor, Denise Carlo who said:
“The East Norwich development has to be built as a low traffic site without large new roads. I’m pleased that the developers have told me that they will not be considering any large infrastructure plans.”
Councillor Carlo also raised the issue of flooding, which was a particular concern of members of the public. Speaking after the meeting, Councillor Carlo said:
“The Environment Agency must revise their flood model data for the East Norwich site in view of the latest Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change report which found that sea levels are rising faster and higher than previously predicted. What’s happening on the ground is overtaking the science. We need to plan for a future where our environment is different due to the effects of climate change.”
Further information from:
Councillor Lesley Grahame 07711 298214
Councillor Denise Carlo 01603 504563
Notes:
Meetings of the Sustainable Development Panel can be watched here:(36) Norwich City Council – YouTube
