Investment in Jessopp Road ‘oasis’
A year after a plot of land just off Unthank Road was sold, we look at how the proceeds are set to be ploughed back into the local community.
The quick sale of a disused scout building on Gloucester Street meant Norfolk Scouts could get to work on plans to develop a brand new Scout HQ at their site on Jessopp Road. The building will be available for use by the wider community.
District Commissioner Matthew Burrell says it was important that money was spent locally: “The quick sale of Gloucester St was a catalyst for just how fast it’s all moved. The Jessopp Road site is probably less than half a mile from Gloucester St. The money was generated in that community and is being pumped into scouting nearby.”
An architect is due to be appointed in January to draw up plans for the new Scout HQ. Planning permission will be applied for in early 2012 and if this is granted, Norfolk Scouts can start a major fundraising drive. They’ve been inspired by 1st Norwich, Lakenham Sea Scouts, who are close to reaching their fundraising target of £400,000 to build a new HQ in Lakenham.
The funding for the project will come from reserves, a legacy left in a will as well as from the sale of Gloucester St. They are already in advanced negotiations with daytime youth user for the new HQ. Two local scouting groups have been merged and will meet at St Anne’s on Colman Road until the new HQ is built.
According to Norfolk Scouts, their membership is continuing to grow, but at a time of austerity, the organisation’s had to take a hard look at what it offers, opting for smaller more cost-effective activities, such as simple outdoor camps.
While the plans are drawn up, scout groups and members of the wider community are still able to use the buildings and open space at Jessopp Road by contacting: Simon Mobbs, Warden at Jessopp Road site 07711 323211
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