Return of the cone snatchers
Businesses in south Norwich are gearing up for the return of UEA students this week. But as they start to arrive, we weigh up the pros and cons of having 13000 students on our doorstep.
For many local businesses, the students can’t come back soon enough. On Unthank Road alone, shops like the Co-op and the butchers, still smarting from the arrival of Tesco, hope the students will revive their fortunes. Local pubs also notice when the halls of residences empty. One pub will be handing out free tins of baked beans to students on campus, publicising what they have on offer.
In a wider context, thousands of people who live in south Norwich benefit from the employment, studying and recreational opportunities the university provides. In terms of live entertainment, Mercury-prize contenders Foals and winners Klaxons both take to the stage later this term. Companies are also looking to the UEA for graduates to take up internships.
But there are some residents who dread the start of a new term. The university puts pressure on parking spaces within walking distance, although the city council has taken steps to curb this. But the problems are worse at night. Last year, the police heard from local people who regularly get woken as unruly students make their way home. Residents complained of cars being vandalised and having to clear up vomit from their front gardens.
Having 13000 students living and studying in south Norwich is broadly a positive addition of life in this part of the city, if only they could learn to go home quietly. A cone amnesty held at the end of last term, indicated the police’s willingness to show a little leniency towards youthful high jinks.
Officers will be back on campus this week, offering security tips, as many students get their first taste of independence. It would be a golden opportunity to offer some other basic advice. If they wouldn’t urinate in people’s gardens back home, don’t start doing it here.
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