Feedback from the public and stakeholders is shaping proposals for King’s Lynn’s riverfront after consultation took place.
The consultation on the Riverfront Regeneration proposals, held as part of a wider programme of engagement around the project, saw about 200 people attend an open day, whilst over 150 responses were received to an online survey.
As part of the consultation, which was led by the borough council, local people were asked to give their views on the Custom House with 73% of respondents in favour of the proposals for flexible use of the iconic building.
People were also asked what they would like to see the building used for with suggestions from the public for uses for the venue including educational activities, local arts, lecture space, and local history interpretations.
In response to the feedback given, changes are being made to the proposals, with fewer openings to the arcades at the Custom House, and revisions to the height and number of lighting columns on Purfleet Quay.
In addition, Norfolk Museum Service are assisting in designing interpretations for the Custom House and these will take into consideration suggestions for local history, art, and education.
Councillor Alistair Beales, Cabinet Member for Business with the Borough Council commented: “Thank you to everyone who took the time to share their views in our consultation, either at the event or through the online survey.
“The Custom House is an iconic building and we are fully committed to ensuring that it is carefully and sensitively restored in a way that is respectful of its heritage. Like everyone, we want to see it once again open its doors for public use.
“We have listened to what we have heard and accordingly we are in the process of adapting the designs to reflect key emerging themes from our public feedback, and our conversations with conservation officers and Historic England.”
During the consultation, people were also invited to have their say on possible plans for a derelict site next to Devil’s Alley with 73% of respondents saying they would visit this area if it was developed as a park/public realm and hosting events.
Ideas from people for the Devil’s Alley site included providing community gardens and allotments, holding summer and winter fairs, and having pods where artists could paint.
In response to the feedback, features for adult games will be built into seating areas, and additional bike facilities will be incorporated into the designs for Devil’s Alley.
Councillor Beales added: “We have a fantastic opportunity to revitalise the riverfront, and we know how much local people value this area as our survey revealed that 75% of respondents visit the riverfront at least monthly.”
The Riverfront Regeneration project is part of King’s Lynn Town Deal and Andrew Stevenson, King’s Lynn Town Deal Board’s Champion for the project said: “We are taking on board the insight and ideas we have gained throughout our consultative process so that we can refine the proposals for the riverfront to reflect people’s aspirations for this area.
“With the Town Deal funding, we have a fantastic opportunity to bring new facilities, enhance existing ones, and create new reasons for people to spend time in this part of the town.
“We look forward to sharing the revised proposals, shaped by feedback, in due course as we move this exciting project forward.”
The proposals for the riverfront are due to be submitted for planning later this year.
This is the first phase of the regeneration of King’s Lynn’s riverfront which could pave the way for further investment and improvements in this area.