With their reputation for pillage and plunder, Vikings may not seem the most obvious choice as the theme for a family recreation area.

However, they have been selected as the unlikely inspiration behind the makeover of a picturesque corner of Norwich.

Norwich City Council has launched a project to revive the area of green space next to the Wensum at Fye Bridge, near the city centre.

Officials have picked a Viking theme for the scheme, as the site is said to have been a key location, when they settled here – a wooden causeway formed the first river crossing here, linking the main Danish settlement on the north bank to a growing settlement on the south side. Remains were seen in 1896 and 1999.

Despite this heritage, the reshaped park will have the most un-Viking name of The Oasis. Work is expected to start in the new year, and be completed by the spring.

Under the plans, the site will have a children's 'playtrail', using timber – as a nod to the wooden Viking bridge. It will also feature a paved labyrinth – an important element in Danish festivals.

Councillor Bert Bremner, cabinet member for environment and sustainable development, said: 'The area has a rich Anglo-Saxon and Viking past, so it seemed very fitting to reflect this in the design.

'When the river was low, you could catch a glimpse of the Viking bridge, with sightings as recent as 1999.'

Do you know of a scheme celebrating a part of the region's history? Email david.hannant@archant.co.uk

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