Broads Authority developing 'most ambitious project yet'
The Broads Authority has set its sights on getting a £10m cash injection from the National Lottery
Officials are preparing to bid for a share of £150m funding which they say will be used for for one of the most ambitious projects to ever come to the Broads.
The Broads Authority has set its sights on getting a £10m cash injection from the National Lottery, which will be used for schemes that aim to boost connectivity in the waterways.
It is hoped the funds can be used for a wide-ranging programme that will break down barriers preventing everyone from accessing and enjoying the natural environment.
At a recent Broads Authority (BA) meeting, Andrew Farrell, programme manager, said if it can get the cash, it will be used for “bigger projects than ever before” and that there are plans to work with a huge range of partner agencies to deliver the scheme.
He said: “After our previous successes, we want to do something that is bold and ambitious.”
While exact details of the BA’s ambitions are to be revealed, the project will focus on looking at ways to protect the natural landscape while also encouraging more people to visit and enjoy the waterways.
The proposals gained widespread support from members, who were particularly keen to see projects come forward that engage with diverse groups in Norfolk.
High on the agenda was improving access for disabled people in the Broads as well as finding ways to better engage with minority ethnic groups.
Gurpreet Padda, a Norwich City councillor who has recently joined as a member for the BA, said: “We need to encourage people to get out of an urban context and into the Broads.”
Members voted unanimously for the BA to pursue the funding. Officers will now produce an expression of interest and submit this to the National Lottery Heritage Fund in the hope of gaining a share of the £150m pot of funds.