Council Reveals Market Square’s Car Ban Was Never Legally Formalized

Hay Hill, a bustling city centre route, has been utilized daily by thousands of pedestrians, including shoppers and commuters, for many decades. However, it has come to light that those on foot might have had the option to drive through the area. Although Hay Hill in Norwich underwent pedestrianisation in the 1970s, it has now been disclosed that a prohibition on traffic was never legally established. To officially establish the vehicle prohibition, Norfolk County Council has scheduled a court hearing at Norwich Magistrates’ Court for 4 December. This oversight was identified following the completion of the £3.2m regeneration project at Hay Hill, a scheme that incorporated the addition of new seating and fountains. The site was reopened last month, although its initial completion was anticipated for April 2023. According to Mike Stonard, the Labour leader for Norwich City Council, the delay was partly due to a fountain leak and a postponement in the delivery of specialized stonework from Portugal. The Local Democracy Reporting Service reported that while operating a vehicle within the square itself was not unlawful, drivers would be unable to access the location without violating other existing traffic regulations. Individuals who wish to oppose the court application on 4 December are able to contest the proposals during the scheduled hearing.