Exchange Street has been a source of contention since 2020 when vehicles were banned in order to create outdoor seating areas during the pandemic recovery. However, earlier this month, the cabinet member for transport at County Hall, Graham Plant, made a sudden decision to scrap the pedestrianisation. This move has caused concern among businesses along Exchange Street, particularly those that have outdoor seating, as they fear losing this important revenue stream. Many feel that the county council should have consulted them prior to making this decision.
Business owners along Exchange Street, such as Nicola Hay of Cafe 33 and Jenny Armstrong of Côte Norwich, have expressed their frustration and worry over potentially losing their outdoor seating areas. Hay emphasized the need for businesses to be part of the conversation and be provided with updates in order to plan for the future. Armstrong mentioned that her business had recently renewed its pavement license and now faces uncertainty about keeping the seating area. Both stressed that losing the outdoor dining space would have a detrimental impact on their revenue.
After reaching out to the council, it was revealed that feedback from businesses had been considered during the extension of the initial closure. The closure was implemented as a part of social distancing measures and included a 12-month consultation period to review the scheme and gather feedback. The council cited traffic monitoring data that showed a significant number of vehicles still using the road, leading them to determine that maintaining the current arrangement would pose safety concerns. Thus, the decision was made not to make the restrictions permanent when the Experimental Traffic Regulation Order expires.
Criticism has arisen over the decision-making process, as opponents claim that businesses along Exchange Street should have been consulted and given a voice in the matter. Christopher Cooper, owner of Tolar Jewellery, expressed his disappointment in the lack of communication and consideration from the council. He believes that businesses offering outdoor dining, such as Butcher Bhoy, Cafe 33, and Côte, will be severely affected by the change. Cooper emphasized that the businesses along the street were not given any prior warning or consultation about the decision.
The decision to reopen Exchange Street was made by Graham Plant alone after he scrapped a committee that was supposed to discuss Norwich road schemes. This has led to further criticism from opponents, including the leader of the Labour-led city council, Mike Stonard. Overall, the sudden scrapping of pedestrianisation and the lack of consultation with businesses has caused significant concern and uncertainty for these establishments that rely on outdoor seating for their survival and success.
