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The Norwich Livestock Market, which has been in its Hall Road location for over 60 years, may soon be relocated. The city council is set to vote on Tuesday to decide whether to push forward with a plan to move the market outside the city limits.
The Future of a Historic Market
Since 1960, Norwich Livestock Market has been a key part of the local economy, especially for East Anglia. However, if it remains in its current location, repairs are estimated to cost around £3 million. Farmers are also advocating for a location with easier road access.
Council leader Mike Stonard emphasized, “This is the only livestock market for many miles, making it an essential part of the East Anglian economy.” He also pointed out that significant repair work would be necessary to bring the market up to modern standards.
Alternative Uses for the Land
According to Stonard, the land on Hall Road is only used once a week for the livestock market. He believes it could be repurposed for industrial or employment uses that would provide greater benefit to the city and its residents. Nevertheless, the council remains committed to offering a livestock market but is seeking a more suitable location.,
A Tradition Spanning Centuries
Livestock trading in Norwich has a history going back about 700 years. From 1738 until 1960, the market was located near Norwich Castle before moving to its current Hall Road site. A 1984 Act of Parliament requires the city to maintain a livestock market within its boundaries.
Plans for a New Location
Although previous efforts to change this law have been unsuccessful, the Labour-led council is hopeful it can now secure a mandate to pursue a private bill in Parliament.
This would allow for a new market location that is comparable to the current one and close to major roads like the A11 or A47, ensuring that livestock producers can continue to attend local markets.
Public Opinion on the Move
A consultation process, which ended in August, revealed that 73% of respondents supported the council’s plan to relocate the market. Half of the 349 participants were market users, while 32% were farmers or National Farmers’ Union (NFU) members. On average, respondents suggested that the market should be about 10 miles (16km) from Norwich.
At the beginning of the consultation, NFU eastern regional director Zoe Leach expressed her approval, noting that it was a welcome step after a period of prolonged uncertainty.