Creating a city fit for 2025
Public consultation closes tomorrow on a major strategy affecting Norwich’s roads in the future. It’s a huge document, in part dependent on the construction of the Northern Distributor Road. Here’s what it could mean for residents in south Norwich.
Newmarket Road and the A11 corridor.Fast, efficient buses from Thickthorn Park and Ride are a key part of the strategy. City councillors met today to discuss the first changes. If approved, the existing bus lane will be extended from the city boundary to Unthank Road, operational 24/7. The speed limit will be reduced to 30 mph from the Bluebell Road slip road. Double yellow lines will restrict parking in the bus lane opposite Town Close School.
Cycling. The Avenues becomes a ”priority strategic cycle route” linking the N&N University hospital and the UEA to the city centre. Exact details of other future cycle routes are still to be confirmed.
City Centre.The aim is to remove general traffic from busy shopping areas. Westlegate (outside John Lewis) could be pedestrianised, although county councillors have blocked this proposal in the past. Delivery access to Chapelfield Mall could see the road alongside Chapelfield Gardens widened, shaving off part of the park.
Norwich Research Park. Outline plans for a bus route linking Thickthorn Park and Ride to the Research Park and N&N University hospital.
The Norwich Area Transportation Strategy (NATS) is gearing the city up for future growth. Norwich has been earmarked for 30,000 new homes over the next fifteen years. These transport plans seek to address the strain the current infrastructure is under, making the city fit for 2025. Feedback from the public will be processed by Norfolk County Council, who will draw up detailed plans in the new year.
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