Council outlines vision for Thorpe St Andrew’s River Green

Plans are underway to create a WWI centenary garden at Thorpe River Green.PHOTO: Nick Butcher (Image: ©archant2016)

Plans for River Green, in Thorpe St Andrew, include a new First World War memorial garden and a tourist information hub.

One of the more ambitious proposals by the town council is to also relocate a Grade II listed cottageon to the site to serve as a ticket office.

Town mayor, Ian Mackie, said the work will help transform the area, off Yarmouth Road, into a more focal point for the town.

'We are making sure River Green is accessible in the future as river tourism increases and the area becomes larger in terms of population,' he said.

Six trees have already been removed from one corner of the site in preparation for the creation of the memorial garden.

They will be replaced by five oak trees in the coming days, costing almost £1,500, along with a circular raised poppy bed.

Some of the wider changes to River Green include the transformation of the existing toilet block into a tourist information hub.

Thomas Foreman, town clerk, said a unisex and disabled access toilet would still remain should the plans go ahead.

An area of land on River Green has also been designated as a possible location for the little-known John Fox cottage.

It is envisaged that the Victorian thatched roof-building, currently situated at the Broads Authority dockyard on Griffin Lane, could become a ticket office for the river ferry.

Mr Mackie added that the council was also considering creating a new car park next to the Rushcutters Arms.

Other improvements include new benches, Victorian-style lamp posts and hanging baskets.

Are you looking to improve your area? Email luke.powell@archant.co.uk or call 01603 772684.