Campaigners aiming to protect Norwich's most treasured woodland are celebrating after gaining political backing and news of a potential £250,000 boost.
The Friends of Train Wood and Marriott's Way group was set up more than a year ago, after Norfolk County Council threatened to sell Train Wood, the site of the old city train station.
After more than 2,000 people signed a petition to stop the woodland, near Barn Road, and entrance to well-loved Marriott's Way footpath being put into private ownership, the council paused the sale so the group could find a way to manage it.
And at a meeting last week, David Harrison, deputy leader of the council, pledged his support to protecting the park - at the same time as Norwich City Council announced that Marriott's Way would be recommended for a £250,000 boost next year.
Now, the group has urged the community to get on board at a special public meeting to discuss the woodland's future on September 17.
Alan Cubbage, chair of the group, described the news as a 'breakthrough moment'.
He added: 'I am delighted to say that after months of hard work and negotiations, Norfolk County council are providing advice and support from their expert officers and environmental services.
'This means that we are making significant progress towards agreeing how we can keep the site well managed and in public hands for all the people of Norwich - and Norfolk - to enjoy.'
The 12-acre Train Wood includes rare urban wet, dry and ancient woodland and a riverbank path. It is the start of the 26-mile Marriott's Way footpath, which runs between Aylsham and Norwich.
Made up of railway enthusiasts, birdwatchers, cyclists, walkers and those living nearby, the group is working on a management plan to highlight the wood's railway heritage, as well as improving conditions for cyclists.
Councillor Lucy Galvin, green city councillor, said: 'It's liked by so many people in different ways. They walk, they fish, they cycle and they love the railway heritage. We want a really long-term stable plan for it.'
Mr Cubbage described the site was a 'magnificent jewel in Norwich's crown' and encouraged people to attend the meeting.
At a Norwich City Council cabinet meeting on Wednesday, September 10, Marriott's Way was put forward for the £250,000 funding in 2015/16.
Other projects recommended included Riverside Walk and Earlham Millenium Green. In total five projects would receive a share of £1m, which will come from the newly-introduced community infrastructure levy.
The meeting will be held on Wednesday, September 17 at 7.30pm at the Norman Centre on Bignold Road.
What do you think should happen to Train Wood? Let us know by writing, with full contact details, to Letters Editor, Prospect House, Rouen Road, Norwich, NR1 1RE.
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