Work to transform Dereham town centre by 2031 move slowly forward

Unveiled in August 2020, the Dereham Town Delivery Plan is intended to transform the town centre, strengthening the local economy and creating a new mixed-use quarter.

Work so far has included installing improved bicycle parking, better signage and 'wayfinding', upgrades to the Queen Mother's Garden, installation of public art, and the opening of the Ellenor Fenn Memorial Garden.

Mike Webb, chairman of the aboutDereham partnership, said: “The major objective in the plan was a complete remodeling of the town’s Market Place, re-routing the buses. making much more space for pedestrians and a safer, more appealing place for residents and visitors. 

“Obviously, a project of that size will need a huge amount of funding and will require local councils, particularly Breckland district council, to put together a funding package.”

A map showing where activity could take place in Dereham over the coming years (Image: Breckland Council)

Hugh King, the mayor of Dereham, said he was pleased the town had a blueprint to work to.

Mr King said: “It was a significant milestone to develop a plan where different agencies agree on its broad outcomes.

"This is a living document and we look forward to working with Breckland council to keep the document updated as the social and economic landscape of the town evolves.” 

Dozens attended the opening of Ellenor Fenn Garden in Dereham back in 2021 (Image: Keith Mindham Photography)

Breckland Council commissioned the plan as part of a wider Future Breckland initiative.

It has also set up a new ‘meanwhile’ scheme to help draw new businesses to Dereham's high street and is offering up to £10,000 worth of support for those looking to open a new shop or expand an existing one. 

Mike Webb, Chairman of aboutDereham (Image: Mike Webb)

The council had bid for £20m to help fund the project from the second round of the government's levelling-up fund, but this was unsuccessful.