Why we proposed these changes

About the area

Tombland is one of the most historic public places in Norwich.  It was the centre of the city until around the time of the Norman Conquest in 1066AD, when the castle was built and the market moved to its current location.  The area also pre-dates Norwich Cathedral.

Today, Tombland lies within the City Centre Conservation Area and is surrounded by listed buildings, some of which are scheduled monuments of national importance.

Although the area is no longer one of the city's main shopping destinations, it is a centre for restaurants, serves as a transport hub for the northern part of the city centre, and is on the main pedestrian/cycle route between Norwich Cathedral and the market.

Background to the proposals

Given the importance of Tombland, it has become apparent that the current triangular one-way system on the Norwich Cathedral side of the road, which has been in place since
the 1800s, is not suited to the way in which the area is used today.

With this in mind, a feasibility study was commissioned by Norfolk County Council and Norwich City Council through the Transport for Norwich partnership.  The aim was to understand the current uses of the area and to put forward proposals to address Tombland's needs as they are today.  The result of this work is shown in the consultation proposals.