Denver Complex Visioning Study

RICHARD GLEN RGA ASSOCIATES

July 2015 ‘All rights reserved. Copyright Richard Glen Associates 2015’

Richard Glen Associates has prepared this report in accordance with the instructions of their clients, the Environment Agency, IRUWKHLUVROHDQGVSHFL¿FXVH$Q\RWKHUSHUVRQVZKRXVHDQ\ information contained herein do so at their own risk.’ Denver Complex Visioning Study

On behalf of

July 2015

Prepared by

Summary of Visioning Study for Denver Complex

Contents

1.0 Introduction 1.1 Key Objectives 1 1.2 Study Area 1 1.3 A Brief Description of the Denver Complex 1 1.4 Methodology 2 ,QFHSWLRQ0HHWLQJ %ULH¿QJ  2 1.4.2 Site Visits, data Collection & Analysis 2 1.4.3 Document Research & Project Integration 3 1.4.4 Development of Draft Proposals 3 1.5 Sustainable Approach 3

2.0 Phase 1 Proposals 4 3.0 Phase 2 Proposals 6 4.0 Phase 3 Proposals 8 5.0 Phase 4 Proposals 9 6.0 Stakeholder Mangement & Consultation 10 6.1 Stages of Consultation 10 6.1.1 Phase 1: 10 6.1.2 Phase 2: 11 6.1.3 Phase 3: 11 6.1.4 Phase 4: 11 7.0 Main Points from the Consultation Exercise 11 7.1 Environment Agency Staff Seminar 11 7.2 Stakeholder Workshop 12 7.3 Open Drop in Exhibition 12 8.0 Summary of Main Recommendations 14 9.0 Next Steps 14 10.0 Potential Funding Sources 15 11.0 Indicative Costings 20

Summary of Visioning Study for Denver Complex

1.0 Introduction

1.0 Introduction 1.1 Key Objectives 1.3 A brief description of the Denver Complex The Environment Agency (EA) is a partner in the Ouse The key objectives of the Visioning Study are: The role of Denver in drainage and flood protection Washes Landscape Partnership (OWLP), a Heritage • Integrate where possible existing land and water uses stretches back to the mid Seventeenth Century when the Lottery Fund project managed by Cambridgeshire ACRE. within future proposals, paying particular attention Dutch engineer Vermuyden began large-scale drainage of The OWLP works with a wide range of partners to promote to the Denver Complex’s crucial operational roles the Fens, including the construction of the New Bedford the Ouse Washes landscape as a destination whilst in flood protection, drainage, navigation and water (Hundred Foot) River. The main Denver Sluice was maintaining the valuable natural and cultural heritage supply. rebuilt and improved in the eighteenth and nineteenth of this unique working landscape. In December 2014 centuries and a navigation lock added. Over the years • Capitalise on the Complex as a sustainable the Environment Agency commissioned Richard Glen further sluices have been constructed to control water in recreation, tourism and transport resource and Associates to prepare a Visioning Study for the Denver the Ouse Washes landscape resulting in what is probably identify further physical heritage and environmental Complex as part of the EA’s contribution to the Ouse one of the largest sluice complexes in the UK. improvements, which can provide and sustain new Washes Landscape Partnership. jobs and economic opportunities. There are important stories to be told about the history The Visioning Study is one of twenty-five themed projects • Develop the Complex as a hub site for recreation, and gradual development and re-modelling of the Denver which aim to raise awareness of the Ouse Washes heritage interpretation, navigation and community Complex over the centuries. These stories include what landscape area and encourage an active participation in facilities. the original Fenland landscape was like prior to drainage, celebrating and enhancing its heritage, both by involving what it was like to live there, and the impacts of drainage local people and by encouraging more people to visit. The 1.2 The Study Area on local communities and the landscape. What were the Visioning Study aims to help the EA, its key stakeholders The area of study centres on Denver Complex and priorities of those who initiated the drainage and those and partners to deliver sustainable regeneration of the considers its wider context within the Ouse Washes who opposed it, for example, the Fen Tigers who did Denver Complex and its surroundings, to become a landscape. The Study has regard to nearby land uses, not wish to see their way of life change and who took tourist hub and northern gateway to the Ouse Washes local transport routes and links with access routes such advantage of the confusion during the English Civil War landscape. as a National Cycle Route, bridleways and footpaths. to sabotage the drainage systems. These stories all It encompasses local settlements, particularly Denver contribute to the considerable heritage of the Complex village and Downham Market, and links with other local and its surrounding area. attractions and local businesses. The 1920s saw Denver Sluice itself enlarged and improved and begin to take its present shape. There have always been problems with siltation in the Tidal River Great Ouse which impacts on the efficient operation of the sluices and on navigation. A major desilting exercise took place in 2008 and a jetting system has been installed on the Sluice gates. Options for managing the Tidal River over the next 100 years are regularly reviewed.

Summary of Visioning Study for Denver Complex 1 1.0 Introduction

1.4 Methodology There are a number of major drainage systems which The Complex is manned 24 hours a day and 365 days In developing the Visioning Study the main elements were: converge on Denver, including the New Bedford River, of the year by two full-time staff who live on site. They ,QFHSWLRQ0HHWLQJ %ULH¿QJ  the Ely Ouse, the Old Bedford River, the Ouse Washes monitor water levels and adjust sluices to manage the ‡ The Environment Agency had already established Reservoir, the Tidal River leading to the Wash and the levels and the Essex Water Transfer scheme. D 3URMHFW 0DQDJHPHQW *URXS MRLQWO\ ZLWK RI¿FHUV open sea, the Cut-off Channel and the Flood Relief The Ouse Washes landscape stretches for 30km from from EA teams and Ouse Washes Landscape &KDQQHO  'HQYHU &RPSOH[ FRQWUROV WKH ÀRZ IURP WKH Earith in the south west to the John Martin Sluice at Partnership staff, to direct its involvement with OWLP. non-tidal Ely Ouse into the tidal section of the Great Welmore Lake, 2.5 km south west of Denver. The (Staff attended from the following EA departments: Ouse at the point where the New Bedford River joins the &RPSOH[LVVXUURXQGHGE\WKUHHÀRRGVWRUDJHUHVHUYRLUV Waterways, Operations, Asset Performance, Estates, Tidal River Great Ouse. It also prevents the tide from which were constructed in the late 1940’s. The Ouse Catchment Management, Fisheries & Biodiversity). WUDYHOOLQJ XS WKH (O\ 2XVH DQG ÀRRGLQJ ODQG PXFK RI Washes are internationally designated as an important An Inception Meeting was held to clarify the Study’s which is below sea level. habitat for birds, and there is a legal obligation under objectives. This provided a source of information Navigation is possible on many of these waterways; European law to keep them in ‘favourable condition’. They about opportunities and issues including operational access to and from the Tidal River Great Ouse to the are home to a number of nature reserves, managed by matters, which gave an understanding of the wider Ely Ouse is via the navigation lock in Denver Sluice. RSPB in the south of the Washes, and the Wildlife and context of the Ouse Washes landscape. The Project Additionally the lock at Salters Lode allows navigation Wetland Trust at Welney. Management Group continued to act as the client from the Tidal River into Well Creek and the Middle Level The operation of the system at Denver therefore affects group throughout the Study. System. At Standground Lock, the Middle Level System PDQ\ LQWHUHVWV LQFOXGLQJ ÀRRG SUHYHQWLRQ UHFUHDWLRQ 1.4.2 Site Visits, Data Collection & Analysis joins the River Nene and connects with the UK’s main heritage tourism, conservation, navigation, watersports, waterway network. ‡ A number of visits were made to the Complex and ¿VKHULHV ,QWHUQDO 'UDLQDJH %RDUGV ZDWHU DEVWUDFWLRQ other key local sites to conduct a visual analysis and The Ely Ouse gives access to the River Lark, Little Ouse, and local residents. Achieving the right balance between a strategic review of the study area. The range of Wissey and Cam navigations. A lock was built into the these interests is a requirement of managing the Complex. waterways and landscapes were assessed together Relief Channel at the Complex in 2001 which connects It can be seen that the word ‘complex’ is well-used in its with their existing and potential uses. Visits with the the Ely Ouse to the Flood Relief Channel and permits application to Denver! The complexity of its functions, client team helped to gain an understanding of the non-tidal navigation to Downham Market and as far as its large and impressive engineering structures, the opportunities and constraints presented. the Tail Sluice at Saddlebow near Kings Lynn. complicated system of waterways and the fascinating 1.4.3 Document Research & Project Integration In addition, a Water Transfer Scheme was constructed account of how it all works in its essential role in protecting ‡ Desktop study analysed documents and websites in the 1970s to take surplus water from the Ely Ouse WKH)HQODQGODQGVFDSHIURPÀRRGLQJPDNHVWKH'HQYHU relating to the Complex, the Ouse Washes Landscape ZKLFKZRXOGRWKHUZLVHÀRZLQWR7KH:DVKWRUHVHUYRLUV Complex a unique place to visit. Partnership, strategic plans, tourism and heritage in Essex. information etc, setting the Visioning Study in its local and strategic contexts.

2 Summary of Visioning Study for Denver Complex 1.0 Introduction

1.4.4 Development of Draft Proposals 6WDNHKROGHU(QJDJHPHQW 6XVWDLQDEOH$SSURDFK Draft proposals were prepared and discussed initially Results of previous consultations regarding Denver A holistic approach was taken to the Complex’s ZLWK($RI¿FHUVSULRUWRSUHVHQWDWLRQWRZLGHUVWDNHKROGHU Complex itself and the wider Ouse Washes landscape multi-functional role, its context and its operational groups. The Study proposals applied the following key were reviewed. A Stakeholder Engagement Plan was requirements, seeking to protect it from inappropriate themes and concepts: prepared in conjunction with the client body, in line with development whilst unlocking potential environmental, ‡ Opportunities for infrastructure improvements on site the guidelines in EA’s Building Trust with Communities economic and social benefits. Economic impacts and for enhancing the wider green infrastructure. document. Stakeholders were analysed on the basis of could be made through increased business for existing WKHOLNHO\GHJUHHRIWKHLULQWHUHVWLQDQGRULQÀXHQFH7KH\ providers, the establishment of new small businesses ‡ Sustainable recreation and tourism opportunities, included local community members and local businesses. and employment and skills training opportunities. Social links with other Ouse Washes landscape destinations, Existing contact lists were made good use of, in particular EHQH¿WVFRXOGLQFOXGHLPSURYLQJWKHKHDOWKZHOOEHLQJ audience development of both visitors and local those from OWLP. Aware that there had been a number and social capital of local communities, ensuring a more people, including the hard to reach and building on of previous workshops and other consultations concerning diverse audience for Denver, providing new opportunities the heritage values of the Denver Complex. the Complex and to avoid ‘consultation fatigue’, the for sustainable transport and engaging people in the ‡ Destination management; improving visitor offer and approach was to undertake limited initial consultation heritage of the area through information, interpretation facilities, information and promotion. followed by later presentation of tangible proposals to and education. The protection of the landscape, natural ‡ Access improvements for walking, cycling, horse a wider audience. Consultation events also served to environment, built heritage and archaeology were of riding, canoeing, including development of circular assist the process of engaging local people with their the utmost importance in considering any proposals trails and connections and links with other attractions, environment and its heritage, providing an understanding for development. This approach gave meaning and destinations and settlements, bearing in mind both of the uniqueness of the Denver Complex as a heritage coherence to the proposals, engaging local communities physical and intellectual access for all. VLWH'HWDLOVRIWKHFRQVXOWDWLRQSURFHVVDQGLWV¿QGLQJV with the past history and future regeneration of their area. ‡ Opportunities for sustainable regeneration and the appear in Section 6.0 of this report. establishment of small businesses such as café, accommodation, boat hire, boating services, cycle hire etc. ‡ Environmental enhancement initiatives and enhancement of the locally distinctive character. ‡ Interpretation themes and use of innovative means of presentation. ‡ Preparation of draft strategic plans. Proposals were modified through consultation with the Project Management Group and a wide variety of stakeholders and local residents.

Summary of Visioning Study for Denver Complex 3 2.0 Phase 1 Proposals

2.0 Initial Design Proposals The initial Phase 1 development proposals for the Denver Complex are centred around the existing car park and URZLQJFOXEKRXVH7KHSURSRVDOVDOORZIRUÀH[LELOLW\LQ phasing to optimise the site for the use by the widest section of the community. The proposals are: ‡ Develop a new café & clubhouse facility Create Facilities for Bird Watching ‡ Improving gateways & access points Develop Circular Cycle Routes ‡ Revamp existing signage & interpretation ‡ Provide new toilets, a kiosk & waterside picnic area Modern student residencies do not positively address the waterway ‡ Create adventure playground in existing car park ‡ Promote circular multi-user routes accessible to all

‡ Develop new links to National Cycle Route 11 Reinforce Existing Bridleway Routes ‡ Reinforce existing bridleway connections ‡ Promote & develop rowing & canoeing oportunities ‡ Develop wetland habitats to include bird hides Promote Long Distance Footpath Routes Create Viewing Screens along Trim Trail ‡ Develop trim trails & open air exercise areas ‡ 3URPRWHH[LVWLQJ¿VKHULHVDQGQHZ¿VKSDVV ‡ Develop ice skating pond within the wetland areas ‡ Create parking areas for horseboxes & trailers Create parking for Horseboxes & Trailers Sustainability

Landscape products would utilise recycled materials Create Picnic Areas along the Waterfront and be of a highly durable long lasting construction. Footpaths and roads utilise demolition rubble for sub- bases. Hard paved areas would incorporate Sustainable 8UEDQ'UDLQDJH6\VWHPVWRUHGXFHÀRRGULVNDQGEHQH¿W biodiversity. Soft landscaped areas would be located and detailed to enable easy access for maintenance, while Develop Trim Trails & Exercise Areas planting species selected would be chosen for their native Develop Canoe Trails along Waterways hardy low maintenance qualities. Create Access for Rowing & Canoeing

4 Summary of Visioning Study for Denver Complex 2.0 Phase 1 Proposals

l Key

7LGDO5LYHU*UHDW2XVH1HZ%HGIRUG5LYHU

Relief Channe 1RQ7LGDO:DWHUZD\ ([LVWLQJ2SHQ6SDFH

Tidal River Great Ouse Ouse Valley & Fen Rivers Way Rivers Fen & Valley Ouse

Rowing Course ([LVWLQJ9HJHWDWLRQ Ice Skating il ra Pond T ([LVWLQJ$TXDWLF9HJHWDWLRQ m i r Cruisering to T Downham ([LVWLQJ%XLOGLQJV Market Steps ([LVWLQJ3XEOLF)RRWSDWK Trim Trail

Rowing Pontoon 1DWLRQDO&\FOH1HWZRUN5RXWH

Horse Box & AP 2XVH9DOOH\ )HQ5LYHUV:D\ Boat Trailer Paddocks Parking 1DWLRQDO&\FOH1HWZRUN5RXWH 2XVH9DOOH\ )HQ5LYHUV:D\ AP A G Wright ([LVWLQJ%ULGOHZD\ AP Sluice 3HUPLVVLYH)RRWSDWK $FFHVV(QGHG6HSWHPEHU NCR 11 Amenity Area Grass Reniforcement King’s Lynn Angling Association for Overspill & Trailer Parking Jenyns Arms P.H. Sluice Road ([LVWLQJ3XPS2XW AP AP Existing Car Park EA Office Phase 1 Adventure & Car Park AP Playground Renew Develop Café, Clubhouse & Terrace AP Toilets/ Kiosk Holding AP 5HQHZ7RLOHWV.LRVN Moorings Lock Office Sluice Adventure Playground Denver House Sluice Cycle AP Access Point Improvement Hire Relief Channel

Picnic Area Moorings Holding

Temp Improve Signage & Interpretation Fish Pass Denver Rowing 3URSRVHG7UDI¿F&DOPLQJ Lock Club Lock Holding Lawn Sluice Moorings Reinforced Grassed Areas Boathouse Steps 3URSRVHG)LVK3DVV

AP Rowing Club Pontoon EA Stop Gate

Marina Car Park + Horse Boxes 3URSRVHG)RRWSDWK Compound Café, Clubhouse Jenyns & Terrace Canoe 3URSRVHG0XOWL8VHU5RXWH Arms Access Point Training Rowing Proposed Adventure Trim Trail & Apparatus Jenyns Arms New Bedford River Car Park Proposed Cycle Hire

Develop Rowing Opportunities

Waterspace Potential Canoe Access Point Events Space

4 Canoe Safari Routes

NCR 11 NCR

8

H

o u

r Permanent Moorings

NCR 11

M Bird Hides

o

o r Initial Phase 1 development proposals centred around the existing car park and rowing clubhouse Summary of Visioning Study for Denver Complex 5 3.0 Phase 2 Proposals

3.0 Initial Design Proposals

In Phase 2 the proposals are further developed to create a visitor centre and extend the connectivity of the Denver Complex via circular routes to surrounding towns, villages and networks. The proposals are:

‡ Extend the café & clubhouse to a visitor centre Develop Opportunities for Rowing Denver Mill After Restoration in 2008 Example of Water Taxi, Spalding ‡ Build a new bridge over the New Bedford River

‡ Reinforce existing connections

‡ Develop circular routes for footpaths, cycleways, bridleways and canoes

‡ Develop the Relief Channel Navigation

‡ Develop water taxi to Downham Market to connect Promote Navigation on the Relief Channel with the railway station, moorings and car parks Example of Bridge over the River Welland Develop Connections with Welney WWT ‡ Extend wetland habitats & biodiversity

‡ Develop adventure area and trim trail

‡ Explore potential for day hire boats

‡ Develop sculpture trail and extend interpretation

Develop Rail Connections Extend Trim Trail Develop Connections with Salters Lode

Develop Visitor Centre, Café & Cubhouse Facility Develop Connections with Moorings on the Wider River & Waterway Network Develop wider Connections with Bridleways Art Installation on the Water Rail Trail

6 Summary of Visioning Study for Denver Complex 3.0 Phase 2 Proposals

Key

Black Drove Hermitage Hall 2XVH:DVKHV3DUWQHUVKLS%RXQGDU\

Hythe Bridge Railway Station :DWHUZD\

Downham Bridge ([LVWLQJ)ORRG5HVHUYRLU

([LVWLQJ2SHQ6SDFH ([LVWLQJ:RRGODQG Relief Channel NCR 11 DOWNHAM se Ou at MARKET re G Railway & Station r e ay iv A10 R W s r e iv R ns Fe A1122 ([LVWLQJ/RQJ'LVWDQFH)RRWSDWKV y a

W

y

e 2XVH9DOOH\ )HQ5LYHUV:D\ ll a V e us O Lakeside 1DWLRQDO&\FOH1HWZRUN5RXWH Salter’s Caravan Park

Lode Denver Golf Club ([LVWLQJ3XEOLF)RRWSDWK Nordelph

Ryston A1122 Golf Club ([LVWLQJ%ULGOHZD\ Denver Well Creek Wndmill Denver Ryston Hall Complex NCR 11 Denver )HQ&DXVHZD\5RPDQ5RDG FRXUVHRI

Ryston Sluice Road Park ([LVWLQJ+HULWDJH6LWH M ([LVWLQJ0RRULQJV

Fen Causeway O

Roman Road u

s (course of) e Public House

V

a

l l e

y

W A10 a ([LVWLQJ*ROI&OXE y

Ouse Washes R ([LVWLQJ)LVKHULHV i v

e Old Bedford River r G

F r

e e Cut-Off Channel

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s O ([LVWLQJ&DUDYDQ &DPSLQJ6LWH

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i s

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New Bedford River e

r

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a y ([LVWLQJ&DU3DUNV Proposed Bridleway Bridge

'HYHORS0XOWL8VHU5RXWHV &RQQHFWLRQV Welmore Lake Sluice ey iss River W Develop Rowing & Canoeing Activity

NCR 11 Develop Canoe Launching & Portage Points

Develop Canoe Trails

Hilgay 'HYHORS:DWHU7D[L5RXWHV

&UHDWH:DWHU7D[L6WRSV

A10 3URSRVHG&DU3DUNV

M Ten Mile 3URSRVHG0DULQD 3KDVH Bank

NCR 11

In Phase 2 the proposals are developed to create a visitor centre, extend the connectivity via circular routes to surrounding towns & villages.

Summary of Visioning Study for Denver Complex 7 White Hall Water Taxi to Cottages Downham Market

Rowing Course

Develop Wetland Habitats

Valley & Fen Rivers Way Rivers Fen & Valley Ouse

Relief Channel

Tidal River Great Ouse

Ice Skating il a r Pond T

m i r Cruisering to T Downham Market

Steps

Trim Trail Key Rowing Pontoon Tidal River Great Ouse/ New Bedford River Horse Box & AP Boat Trailer Non-Tidal Waterway Paddocks Parking Existing Open Space

Existing Vegetation Existing Aquatic Vegetation AP A G Wright Existing Buildings

AP Sluice Existing Agricultural Buildings Existing Public Footpath

NCR National Cycle Network Route 11 Amenity Area 11 Grass Reniforcement Ouse Valley & Fen Rivers Way Adventure for Overspill & Trailer National Cycle Network Route 11 Area Parking & Ouse Valley & Fen Rivers Way Existing Bridleway Sluice Road Permissive Footpath (Access Ended in September 2012) AP AP Existing Kings Lynn Angling Association Car Park EA Office Jenyns Arms P.H. Adventure & Car Park AP Existing Pump Out Playground Phase 1 Renew AP Toilets/ Develop Café, Clubhouse & Terrace Kiosk AP Cycle Holding Hire Renew Toilets/Kiosk HIRE Moorings s

Lock g

n Adventure Playground

Office i r

Proposed o

o AP Access Point Improvements

Visitor M Denver Sluice

Centre g Improve Signage & Interpretation n

Sluice House i d l Proposed Traffic Calming

Relief Channel o Picnic Area H Reinforced Grass Areas Proposed Fish Pass Fish Pass Denver Rowing Proposed Footpath Lock Lock Club Proposed Multi-User Route Holding Lawn Sluice Moorings Proposed Adventure Trim Trail & Apparatus Boathouse Steps Cycle Hire

Develop Rowing Opportunities

AP Rowing Club Pontoon EA Stop Gate Compound Marina Car Park + Horse Boxes Potential Canoe Access Point Café, Clubhouse Jenyns & Terrace Canoe Canoe Safari Routes Arms Access Bird Hides Point

Access Jenyns Phase 2 Bridge Arms Proposed Visitor Centre Car Park Pedestrian Access Develop Wetland Habitats Bridge Over The New Bedford River Water Taxi to Downham Market Waterspace Hire Boats Events Space

1 Art/Sculpture Trail 1

4 Adventure Area

NCR 8

H Cruisers Phase 3

o u

r Permanent Moorings

NCR Proposed Marina Facilities M

o Proposed Pump Out o 1

1

r i Cruisers

n Proposed Marina Cabins g Marina Cabins

s Marina A Proposed Access Track Facilities Jubilee Cruisers Cut-Off Channel Proposed Bunkhouse @ Visitor Centre Cottage

Fairways

New Bedford River Cruisers

Mooring Car Park B Access

Training Rowing Narrow Boats

T

rack

Permanent Moorings Fairways S lu ic e Narrow Boats R o ad

d a C Develop Bridleway o Narrow Boats R Connections along e c the Cut-Off Channel i u l Services S Fairways Access Cill Bridge Rose Narrow Boats Cottage

Permanent Moorings

Whitehouse D Farm Proposed Marina

RICHARD GLEN ASSOCIATES Fen Causeway Landscape Architecture Roman Road (Course of) Waterspace Design Urban Design

s g 9 The Orchard

n i Staverton r o Northamptonshire o

M NN11 6JA

r

u o Tel: 01327 706340 H

8 Mobile: 07795 634243 4 Silt Fen EMail: [email protected] y Web: www.glenassociates.co.uk a Marina Boat Nos. Phase 3:

W

s e r Pontoon Type Length Nos. Marina and boating facilities and visitor accommodation. e s

v DENVER COMPLEX

i This would include: u

R

O Cruisers 6/8m n A 21 - Development of marina south of Diversion Channel Drawing Title:

e

t F to accommodate both cruisers and narrowboats. a

& Cruisers SKETCH MASTERPLAN e B 8/10m 34 This would act as a key economic driver for the

y

r

e & WATERSPACE DESIGN l regeneration of the Complex. Boat access would l

G a C Cruisers 12m 18 PROPOSALS V be from Ely Ouse with a cill at the marina entrance r Narrow Boats 16m 16

e

e to maintain consistent water levels s Narrow Boats 16m 7

v u

i O - Development of holiday cabins surrounding the marina Date: February 2015 Drawn by: RDG

R D Narrow Boats 16m 30 Narrow Boats 18/22m 48 Scale: 1:1250 @ A1 s - Provision of an access track to the marina and cabins

g

n

i Inside Pontoon Berths 10 PHASE 3 r - Provision of bunkhouse accommodation at the Visitor Centre

o 184 o

M ENVIRONMENT AGENCY

r

u

o

H Drawing Number: 8 4 4.0 Phase 3 Proposals 5.0 Phase 4 Proposals

NCR 11 Initial Design Proposals Amenity Area rass Reniforcement In Phase 4 the proposals centre on the existing r Overspill & Trailer (QYLURQPHQW$JHQF\FRPSOH[WRLQFOXGHWKH($RI¿FHV Parking the superintendent’s bungalow and Residual Flow Sluice Sluice Road and Channel.

AP As opportunities and demand for waterspoarts develop a purpose built Paddle Sport Centrecould be located on the

Rowing & EA site, providing access to both the River Great Ouse and

Paddlesports AP

Steps Steps Steps

Centre Steps the Relief Channel, together with a white water course.

Rowing Pontoon

Rowing Pontoon Rowing Phase 4

Proposed Rowing & Paddlesport Centre

HIRE Proposed Canoe Slalom

Canoe Slalom a

Relief Channel Moorings Holding

Fish Pass Lock Sluice

Develop Rowing & Canoeing Regattas on the Relief Channel

EA Stop Gate Compound Marina Car Park + Horse Boxe

Canoe Access Point

s In Phase 4 the proposals centre on the existing Environment Agency complex. Investigate Potential for White Water Rafting

Summary of Visioning Study for Denver Complex 9 6.0 Stakeholder Engagement

6.0 Stakeholder engagement & consultation 6.1 Stages of Consultation 6.1.1 Phase 1: Awareness of recent consultation in regard to both The main stages of consultation were: Develop and build on site heritage, infrastructure, water Denver Complex and the wider Ouse Washes landscape sports & multi-purpose centre. This included: 1. Discussions with the Project Management Team at required an approach to stakeholder engagement which an initial Inception Meeting (15/12/14) and Team ‡ Improvement of on site heritage interpretation and was designed to avoid ‘consultation fatigue.’ This led to Meeting (15/01/15). signage, in order to better connect local people, the presentation of proposals for consultees to review. visitors and tourists, with the built and natural heritage 2. Formulation of Stakeholder Engagement Plan. Initially, constraints and opportunities were discussed RIWKH&RPSOH[DQGLWVULFKKLVWRU\LQÀRRGSURWHFWLRQ ZLWKDVPDOOJURXSRIVWDNHKROGHUVLQFOXGLQJ($RI¿FHUV 3. An internal seminar with EA staff from Waterways, drainage and navigation concerned directly with Denver Complex. Proposals Operations, Asset Performance, Estates, Catchment ‡ Development of current car park with adventure were then produced for wider groups of stakeholders and Management, Fisheries & Biodiversity Teams, plus playground, toilets & kiosk, boat trailer parking, members of local communities to react to and discuss. OWLP staff (10/02/15). WUDI¿FFDOPLQJ A Stakeholder Engagement Plan was devised in 4. A Workshop for a small group of invited people ‡ Developing bridleway connections for walking, riding conjunction with the client group in line with the principles representing organisations using the Complex, local and cycling along the Cut Off Channel to link with of EA’s internal Building Trust with Communities guidance. businesses and attractions, parish and town councils, local settlements and other features and attractions Good use was made of existing contacts who attended wildlife, tourism, watersports and waterways interests in the local area previous workshops and seminars, including OWLP and several OWLP stakeholders (25/02/15). ‡ Creating horse box parking and facilities address lists. Stakeholders were analysed in terms of Redevelopment of the sailing and rowing club WKHLUOLNHO\GHJUHHRILQWHUHVWDQGLQÀXHQFHDQGZHUHWKHQ 5. An Open Drop In Exhibition, widely publicised in the ‡ consulted at the appropriate stage. local press, on regional TV, on posters, through the premises to create a multi-purpose café and OWLP website and by special invitation. It was held clubhouse with viewing terrace, cycle hire etc Throughout the consultations, participants were reminded: at the Complex throughout an afternoon and early ‡ Installation of a canoe access points and development ‡ This was a Visioning Study to produce ideas, none evening and attended by upwards of 100 people. of canoe safari routes of which were ‘set in stone’ They included local residents, representatives of the ‡ Designation of a waterspace events area and rowing ‡ The Visioning work builds on the potential of the site Sailing Club, Rowing Club, Ouse Washes Landscape training course as an important heritage and tourism hub Partnership and Cambridgeshire ACRE, town & ‡ Reviving the heritage of skating in the Fens through ‡ There was a need for economic return, to ensure a parish councils, farmers, other local businesses, provision of an ice skating viable and sustainable future for the Complex IDBs, Angling Association, heritage and local history ‡ The operational concerns of the site were of groups and the local press (19/03/15). ‡ Developing an adventure and trim trail paramount importance and cannot be compromised 6. Final Client Meeting (17/04/15). ‡ All elements proposed are non-statutory duties for the Environment Agency, and as such the implementation Throughout the consultation proposals were presented RIWKHSODQVZLOOGHSHQGRQ¿QGLQJYLDEOHH[WHUQDO in the four phases. sources of income

10 Summary of Visioning Study for Denver Complex 7.0 Consultation Exercise

6.1.2 Phase 2: 6.1.4 Phase 4: 6. There was the opportunity to make the café, visitor Visitor centre, improved connections and wetland habitat. Development of Denver as rowing and paddlesports centre and clubhouse building a sustainability This included: destination. This included: showcase and a model which offered opportunities for education and interpretation regarding sustainable ‡ Creation of a visitor centre, to include extensive ‡ Development of a rowing and paddlesports centre construction and management interpretation about the heritage of the Denver Sluice RQWKHFXUUHQW($RI¿FHVLWH Complex and the Ouse Washes Landscape 7. There were potential highways and transport issues, ‡ Investigate the potential of creating a canoe slalom especially if a marina and holiday cabins were built. ‡ Provision of an access bridge over the New Bedford on the Residual Flow Channel River to connect with Salters Lode and bridleways There was a clear need to explore sustainable along the Ouse Washes and to Kings Lynn 7.0 Main Points from the Consultation Exercise transport options ‡ Introduction of a water taxi from Downham Market 7.1 Environment Agency Staff Seminar - 8. There was potential to bring forward the building town and station 10th February 2015 of a marina to an earlier phase (if it was technically feasible). A development partner could be easier ‡ $FFRPPRGDWLRQRIDGD\ERDWKLUHÀHHW 1. Phase 1 could be achieved relatively easily ‡ Development of accessible wetland habitat to the WR¿QGWKDQIRURWKHUSURSRVDOVDQGDPDULQDZRXOG 2. The importance of respecting the operational needs north of site be a key economic driver. Further investigation and of the Complex, including access to bridges and Development of an arts and sculpture trail around the consultation would be required of the marina’s impact ‡ WKHZDWHU¶VHGJHSDUWLFXODUO\LWVDOOLPSRUWDQWÀRRG RQWKHÀRRGVWRUDJHUHVHUYRLUV site to highlight and interpret its important features, prevention function its history and its natural and built heritage 9. EU Structural funds could potentially be used for 3. There was a question as to whether creating a visitor ‡ Development of an adventure area the café and clubhouse. It could offer community destination was in the EA’s remit. However, there was enterprise, employment and heritage skills training 6.1.3 Phase 3: a clear need for Waterways and Estates departments opportunities Marina and boating facilities and visitor accommodation. to see an economic return, and Agency teams should 10. Creation of new wetlands and other landscape This would include: work together to achieve this improvements were an important part of the ‡ Development of marina south of Diversion Channel 4. Who would ultimately own and maintain the assets? development to accommodate both cruisers and narrowboats. Where would the running costs come from? Would 11. There was a need for early discussion of the This would act as a key economic driver for the more site management be needed? proposals with local planning authorities regeneration of the Complex. Boat access would 5. The café and clubhouse rather than the Sluice House 12. Where would EA’s Operations be accommodated if be from Ely Ouse with a cill at the marina entrance should incorporate the visitor centre. This would to maintain consistent water levels the watersports centre was built on its current site? JLYHHFRQRPLHVRIFRVWVDQGVWDI¿QJ$OVRWKH6OXLFH ‡ Development of holiday cabins around the marina House was needed for staff accommodation 13. It was suggested that the name was changed: ‡ Provision of an access track to the marina and cabins ‘Complex’ sounded too functional. Something with ‡ Provision of bunkhouse accommodation at the Visitor ‘Gateway’ in the name was suggested Centre

Summary of Visioning Study for Denver Complex 11 7.0 Consultation Exercise

7.2 Stakeholder Workshop - 25th February 2015 7.3 Open Drop in Exhibition - 19th March 2015 1. The reaction to developing Denver as a visitor 9. Development at Denver could create competition for 1. Most responders visited Denver Complex once a attraction was generally positive Welney Centre and café, especially if access was month or less frequently, although some did come 2. However, there was concern about the additional free. It was therefore important to ensure that there every day. Visitors mainly came for boating, to visit WUDI¿FZKLFKZRXOGEHJHQHUDWHGDQGWKHDGHTXDF\ was good information and walking, cycling, and the pub, or for walking, cycling or rowing. boating links with other local attractions of access roads. There was a need to develop 2. The majority of people supported the development of sustainable transport. For example, extend the 10. Denver Complex has been very much undersold. Denver Complex as a visitor destination. The main current bus service to Denver bus service to the We needed to get the information right and involve UHVHUYDWLRQVPHQWLRQHGFRQFHUQHGWUDI¿FDQGDOVR Complex, develop a water taxi from Downham schools and colleges the danger of spoiling the peace of the place. Market, encourage cycling and even re-open Denver 11. West Norfolk was in need of good destinations such 3. Proposals were broadly supported across the board, Station! as Denver; the tourist offer has been ‘bitty’ especially: 3. Better signage off the A10 and other main roads 12. Provision for visitors such as visitor centre, information ‡ Boating facilities would be needed hub, café and shop, should be in one building for the ‡ The marina as a prime generator of income 4. There were opportunities for demonstrating best visitor experience ‡ Café and toilets which were much needed sustainability on site: for example wind and water 13. There was concern about disturbance to river wildlife power, sustainable building from increased boating and watersports activity ‡ Improved access and facilities for walkers, cyclists and horse riders 5. There was a need for different user groups to sensibly 14. There should be increased tree planting with share the waterspace )HQVSHFL¿F VSHFLHV LQFOXGLQJ DORQJ WKH ULYHU WR ‡ A water taxi service from Downham Market, 6. Some concern was expressed regarding the Downham Market including the potential for eco-days out, connecting with trains from Cambridge proximity of sluices for inexperienced canoeists, 15. The Roman ‘Fens Causeway’ must not be disturbed rowers or hire boaters. Also the wind on the Ely Ouse by marina and cabin development ‡ Links with Downham Market in general were and the Relief Channel would affect rowing seen as a priority 16. How would all this be paid for? Ideas put forward 7. The provision of temporary moorings was essential: LQFOXGHG6SRUW(QJODQG(86WUXFWXUDO)XQGV/DQG¿OO ‡ The Sailing Club was in need of development as this would generate the majority of local spending and Lottery funds and revival but still viable. 8. Bring forward the proposal for a connecting bridge over the New Bedford River

12 Summary of Visioning Study for Denver Complex 7.0 Consultation Exercise

5. Other uses and ideas put forward included:

‡ Use of the waterspace for dinghy sail training ‡ Geocaching (as at Wicken Fen) ‡ Complete navigation into Kings Lynn via the Flood Relief Channel ‡ Flooding should be controlled by a barrier north of Kings Lynn, this would be more secure, it offered a new road crossing and the potential for tidal power ‡ Include the Old Bedford River in the proposals. Create a lock to join the Old Bedford River and Well Creek above Salters Lode Lock. This would encourage mooring on the Old Bedford River and Well Creek and, in conjunction with the proposed New Bedford River bridge, would give an easy walk to Denver Complex for those who did not want to cross the short stretch of the Tidal River by boat.

The well attended open drop in exhibition

4. Replies to the question ‘What would you not support?’ ‡ A marina would change the character of the area included: DQGUHGXFHWKHYROXPHRIÀRRGVWRUDJH)XUWKHU ‡ Ice skating pond (the climate was changing, and investigation would need to be undertaken to it may disturb wildlife) HVWDEOLVKWKHLPSDFWRIWKHPDULQDRQWKHÀRRG storage reservoir ‡ There was danger of conflict between river users, especially canoeists and anglers ‡ &RQFHUQVZHUHH[SUHVVHGDERXWWKH¿QDQFLDO viability of the proposed café in an ‘already ‡ Anything that would be detrimental to wildlife saturated’ local market and the natural environment ‡ 7KHUHZDVFRQFHUQDERXWWKHÀXFWXDWLQJOHYHOV of the Tidal Ouse in regard to navigation

Summary of Visioning Study for Denver Complex 13 8.0 Summary of Main Recommendations 9.0 Next Steps

8.0 Summary of Main Recommendations 3. The marina development would be a key economic 9.0 Next Steps driver for the area. Although suggested in Phase 3, The processes of stakeholder and community consultation 1. As early as is possible, the Environment Agency the lead-in time requires early progress is made on saw a considerable amount of highly engaged and should produce an Options Paper with the assistance examining its feasibility. detailed discussion of the Visioning Study proposals in of its major partners in the Denver Complex. This workshops and at the well-attended Drop In Event. In 4. To improve the visitor experience, a multi-purpose should consider the Visioning Study proposals and general, there was a very positive reception to developing building should be provided where the current sailing/ suggested phasing and take on board the main Denver Complex as an improved visitor destination. rowing clubhouse stands. This can offer a combined recommendations from the consultation exercise. It The feasibility of the proposals put forward and their timing visitor centre, interpretation, cafe and clubhouse. should make recommendations as to priorities, give depends on a number of factors: funding, planning issues, 5. There is broad support for the further development of a clear indication as to who is going to take options technical practicality and political will. It is now the task watersports, although factors such as wind, proximity forward and have an indicative timetable of the Environment Agency and its partners to examine to large structures and other river users must be 2. Engage with all relevant Environment Agency the viability of the proposals and take them forward as taken into account in planning these facilities. colleagues, teams and senior management, and development projects. 6. A major concern is the adequacy of the road system obtain their buy-in for development of the Denver There was little disagreement during the consultation leading to the Complex. Opportunities should Complex as an improved visitor destination exercise with regard to the ideas proposed and no major therefore be taken to ensure sustainable transport 3. Engage local authority planners and economic dissent from the suggested phasing of the proposals. modes are offered, including cycling, altering bus GHYHORSPHQWRI¿FHUVZLWKWKHSURSRVDOV However, some clear views and pointers did emerge: routes to serve the Complex and providing a water 1. It is essential to begin to improve Denver Complex taxi service to link Denver with Downham Market. 4. Investigate potential funding sources for Phase as a visitor destination and offer visitors a variety 7. Development should minimise disturbance to river 1 infrastructure, information and interpretation of activities as soon as possible. Early progress wildlife and the peaceful nature of Denver. Landscape improvements should be made on the Phase 1 proposals such improvements and biodiversity enhancements, such 5. Conduct an early investigation into the technical, as improving the car park area, providing toilets, as wetland creation are not only important for wildlife ¿QDQFLDODQGSROLWLFDOIHDVLELOLW\RIPDULQDGHYHORSPHQW offering play facilities, improving information and but should also be accessible for people. at Denver and seek potential development partners heritage interpretation, improving links with existing 8. Opportunities should be taken to demonstrate 6. Building on the Visioning Study consultation exercise, walking and cycling routes, devising circular walks sustainability. The feasibility of renewable energy fully engage local communities and local businesses etc. These are relatively easy quick wins which can installation, be that hydro, wind or solar, should with the proposals for Denver. This could take the begin to attract and retain visitors. be examined. A visitor centre would offer an form of a development trust or similar 2. As part of the car park improvements, facilities should ideal opportunity to create a sustainable building be offered for horse riders, together with devising showcase which would give further opportunities for circular rides. Riding, together with cycling, will offer interpretation and education. a more interesting option for experiencing the Fen 9. All proposals must take into account the operational landscape than walking for long distances. functions of the Complex.

14 Summary of Visioning Study for Denver Complex 10.0 Potential Funding Sources

Fund Comments Possible Application to Denver

European Funding See: www.norfolk.gov.uk/business/business_support_and_funding/funding/european_funding/index.htm

Leader/Rural Development West Norfolk Local Action Group is seeking Rural Development projects from business ‡ Development of enterprise and small business Programme, England DQG FRPPXQLW\ RUJDQLVDWLRQV WKDW ¿W ZLWK IXQGLQJ SULRULWLHV  JXLGHOLQHV RI WKH :HVW ‡ Improvement of rural services (RDPE) Norfolk Local Development Strategy. ‡ Developing rural tourism ‡ Supporting cultural and heritage activity

European Social Fund 7RKHOSSHRSOHIXO¿OSRWHQWLDOWKURXJKLPSURYLQJVNLOOVDQGMRESURVSHFWV ‡ Developing training schemes for, e.g., cafe, visitor (ESF) centre, other tourism projects, sailing/rowing club, Big Society CIC has joint ESF and Big Lottery Funding in the Greater Cambridge Greater environmental projects Peterborough LEP area which includes West Norfolk. ‡ Priorities include promoting social inclusion through See: http://europeanfundingnetwork.eu/events/building-better-opportunities-west-norfolk activities using local green infrastructure

Interreg Norfolk County Council is the managing authority for the France (Channel) - England ‡ Potential source for projects contributing to economic Interreg Programme. It opened in 2015 and is a cooperation programme between coastal growth; partner(s) in France will be needed. areas of France that border the Channel and coastal areas of England from Norfolk round to Cornwall.

The programme aims to promote smart, sustainable and inclusive economic growth by fostering co-operation between the two eligible areas.

Life LIFE supports environmental, nature conservation and climate action projects throughout ‡ Wetland creation the EU. ‡ Environmentally-friendly construction and demonstration Current bids open in June 2015 and generally close in either September or October 2015, projects such as the shared cafe, visitor centre, club depending on the project head applied for. house.

Erasmus + A new programme which aims to boost skills and employability, as well as modernising ‡ Training schemes e.g. for cafe, visitor centre, other Education, Training, and Youth work. Also support for grassroots sports, projects tourism projects, sailing/rowing club, environmental projects ‡ Support for development of water sports at Denver

Summary of Visioning Study for Denver Complex 15 10.0 Potential Funding Sources

Fund Comments Possible Application to Denver

Local Enterprise Denver Sluice comes within the Greater Cambridge Greater Peterborough Enterprise ‡ Supports a range of initiatives which contribute to Partnerships Partnership area. The LEP has put in place a Strategy for the use of European Structural economic development, including rural development. and Investment Funds between 2014 and 2020. The Strategy combines the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), Social Fund (ESF) and part of the Rural Development Fund (EAFRD), See: www.gcgp.co.uk

WREN (Waste Recycling :5(1LVDQRWIRUSUR¿WEXVLQHVVWKDWKHOSVEHQH¿WWKHOLYHVRISHRSOHZKROLYHFORVHWR Examples of projects WREN has funded include: Environmental Limited) ODQG¿OOVLWHVE\DZDUGLQJJUDQWVXQGHULWV&RPPXQLW\)XQGIRUFRPPXQLW\FRQVHUYDWLRQ ‡ Provision of children’s play equipment in public open and heritage projects of between £2,000 and £50,000. It will accept applications for space SURMHFWVVLWXDWHGZLWKLQPLOHVRIDODQG¿OOVLWH 'HQYHU6OXLFHMXVWTXDOL¿HVLWLV ‡ Construction of footpaths & cycleways in a public park PLOHVIURP%ODFNEXUQ(QG/DQG¿OO6LWHQHDU.LQJV/\QQ  ‡ Dipping platform and all weather paths at local nature reserve. It cannot fund work relating to car parks, new buildings and extensions, or projects not accessible to the general public.

See: www.wren.org.uk

Sport England Has a number of funding programmes including: ‡ All of these Sport England funds are worth investigation ‡ Inspired Facilities: funds renovation and modernisation of local sports facilities. in terms of developing water sports activities, ice skating, Application deadlines are June 2015 and January 2016 and involving local people of all ages in them. ‡ Community Sport Activation Fund: providing grassroots activity at a very local level. It invests in what works best in a particular area, based on local need and evidence. Round 5 will open in Spring 2016 ‡ Improvement Fund: will award capital grants worth £150,000 to £500,000 to sustainable projects with a clear local need. ‡ Small Grants uses Lottery funding to make awards of between £300 and £10,000 to QRWIRUSUR¿WRUJDQLVDWLRQVWRKHOSPRUHSHRSOHSOD\VSRUW See: www.sportengland.org/funding/about-our-funding

16 Summary of Visioning Study for Denver Complex 10.0 Potential Funding Sources

Fund Comments Possible Application to Denver

Heritage Lottery Fund Further HLF funding could be available to develop projects which enhance the heritage Any of these programmes may have relevance for at Denver and involve people in it. projects at Denver and getting local people, including HLF programmes include: young people, involved in them. ‡ Sharing Heritage: encourages local people to explore the heritage of their area. Heritage includes both the built and natural environment Grants of £3,000–£10,000 and cultural heritage. ‡ 2XU+HULWDJHKHOSVSHRSOHWRSURWHFWDQGVKDUHWKHLUORFDOKHULWDJH3XEOLFEHQH¿W Projects could be devised to engage local people with must be greater than private gain. Grants from £10,000 to £100,000 Denver Sluice though its history and function and role Heritage Grants: for larger heritage projects. Grants of over £100,000 ‡ WKURXJKWKHDJHVLQÀRRGSURWHFWLRQGUDLQDJHZDWHU ‡ Young Roots: engaging young people with heritage. Grants from £10,000 to £50,000 supply, navigation etc See: www.hlf.org.uk/looking-funding/our-grant-programmes#.VVn2svlVikr

Big Lottery Fund BLF Gives grants ranging from £300 to £500,000 to community groups and projects that ‡ Engaging local communities in the local environment improve health, education and the environment. Programmes include Awards for All which ‡ Improving health through better infrastructure offers £300 to £10,000 for a wide range of community projects aimed at developing skills, provision improving health, revitalising the local environment and enabling people to become more ‡ Developing skills in cafe/visitor centre and active citizens. environmental management See: www.biglotteryfund.org.uk

Arts Council The Arts Council has a number of funding programmes which support the arts and artists. ‡ Potential support for development of sculpture trail and See: www.artscouncil.org.uk/funding/ other art installations, interpretation etc Norfolk also has its own Arts Service, part of Norfolk Museums Service which provides a ‡ Also potential support for community artists or artists wide range of support and advice for arts organisations, practitioners, creative enterprises, in residence community groups, schools and volunteers as well as leading and facilitating a number of county wide strategic partnership initiatives. See: www.norfolk.gov.uk/leisure_and_culture/arts/index.htm

Health and Wellbeing Norfolk County Council has responsibilities for public health. There is clear evidence ‡ Walking and cycling development and infrastructure that informal outdoor recreation and contact with nature contribute to improvements in ‡ Trim Trail both physical and mental health and wellbeing. A funding partnership could be formed to develop projects at Denver Sluice See: www.norfolk.gov.uk/Health_and_wellbeing/Health_and_wellbeing_in_Norfolk/ index.htm

Summary of Visioning Study for Denver Complex 17 10.0 Potential Funding Sources

Fund Comments Possible Application to Denver

Parish/Town Council Levied on council tax by the parish or town council and payable by parish residents to Could be used for a range of projects and a useful way of Precept carry out local projects. engaging local parish/town councils and local residents with developments at the Sluice. Their powers include: ‡ Rights of Way improvements ‡ Parking provision ‡ Arts & crafts projects ‡ Litter control ‡ Provision of public toilets ‡ Maintenance of roadside verges & other green space ‡ Encouragement of tourism

Section 106/Community S106 Agreements are developer contributions which make a development proposal In the event of development taking place at Denver Infrastructure Levy (CIL) acceptable in planning terms, that would not otherwise be acceptable. They are focused Sluice, for example, marina and holiday chalets, RQVLWHVSHFL¿FPLWLJDWLRQRIWKHLPSDFWRIGHYHORSPHQW developer contributions may be levied for infrastructure The Community Infrastructure Levy has been recently introduced to encourage developer improvements. payments to contribute to the provision of infrastructure or refurbishment of existing provision to support the additional burden new development makes on both local and strategic infrastructure. The Local Planning Authority, the Borough Council of Kings Lynn & West Norfolk is currently undertaking consultations on the introduction of CIL.

Local Transport Funding The previous Local Sustainable Transport Fund (LSTF) has been wrapped up into the The availability of funding for local transport schemes Single Local Growth Fund. There have been fears that this would spell the end for dedicated could be a source for extending a bus service to Denver funding for sustainable transport. However, the previous government stated that such Sluice and other potential projects such as a water taxi, funding would continue at least in 2015/16. improvements in cycling provision etc.

Public Rights of Way Unfortunately cuts in public funding have hit public rights of way provision very hard. Improvements in walking, cycling and horse riding on However, PROW teams often provide countryside furniture and it may be worth PROWs pursuing this possibility.

18 Summary of Visioning Study for Denver Complex 10.0 Potential Funding Sources

Fund Comments Possible Application to Denver

Economic Development The Borough of Kings Lynn & West Norfolk has an Economic Development Team dedicated Assistance with business and tourism development and Tourism to supporting and developing business in the district. Services include premises search, planning guidance, workforce, skills and recruitment, local knowledge and introductions. Although it has no funding of its own, it can be a useful source of information and guidance as to where investment may come from.

See: www.west-norfolk.gov.uk/default.aspx?page=21606

Similarly, the Borough has dedicated staff to assist with the development of tourism in the district.

Local trusts and other The Borough Council and West Norfolk Partnership have subscribed to GRANTnet to Helpful in ascertaining what sources of funding may be grant sources assist local organisations in their search for funding. GRANTnet enables community and available from local trusts and other funders for a variety GRANTnet voluntary groups, sports and other clubs, schools, social enterprises and small businesses of groups and organisations. to search across a wide range of funding sources.

Summary of Visioning Study for Denver Complex 19 11.0 Indicative Costings

Indicative Costings As a comparison, Sustrans highlight example costs for Example from Sustrans Design Guide 17 a stretch of the Water Rail Way in Lincolnshire. The In preparing costings for the Denver Visioning Project we Water Rail Way Railway Path between Langrick Bridge cost for the entire 33 mile (53km) route, a mixture of have set out a menu of indicative costs, which would be and Anton’s Gowt in Lincolnshire 3.6km long, on the disused railway, tracks and minor roads, including all developed through detailed design. These include: Path Boston-Lincoln route (NCN1), completed in Autumn 2008. construction for multi user routes, car parking, countryside development costs, art works and promotion materials, Final Costs furniture, bird hides, signage, adventure playground was approximately £3 million. equipment and canoe portage access points. Sustrans notes that development costs of such schemes Environment Impact Assessment £4,500.00 Costing Multi-User Routes can be high as there are many details to resolve and Tree/site Clearance £6,100.00 parties to satisfy. They suggest the cost of developing The following comments and costs have been adapted Site set up, preliminaries £10,740.00 a scheme successfully through to the planning approval from the Sustrans Connect2 and Greenway Design Guide: stage and managing the works on the ground, amounts & site dismantling 17 ‘Costs and Sources of Funding.’ to some 17.5% of the total project cost, (excluding land Path construction £233,980.00 &RVWVRI¿QLVKHGZRUNVIRUPXOWLXVHUURXWHVYDU\ZLGHO\ negotiation and costs.) and will depend on many factors such as topography, (2.5m wide DBM surface on type 1 base) available infrastructure, road junctions, foundation and Accommodation works £7,125.00 surface conditions and the need for drainage etc. Bridges particularly depend upon whether they are proprietary Fencing/access controls £13,500.00 standard designs or one-off structures. Furniture purchase and installation £15,000.00

(signs, various interesting seats,

cycle stands, mileposts etc)

Artwork £14,500.00

Design and management of contract £33,200.00

Legal and Surveyor cost £3500.00

Total £342,145.00

Costs per km £95,040.00

20 Summary of Visioning Study for Denver Complex 11.0 Indicative Costings

Item Unit Indicative Cost per Unit

Path Construction Multi User Routes

For specs see: On the right track; surface requirements for shared use routes’. (CA213). Available: http://publications.naturalengland.org.uk/publication/41018?category=211280

Sealed asphalt surface 2.5m width Route Length 10m (25m2) From £16.00 to £21.00 per m2GHSHQGLQJRQJUDGHFRORXU¿QLVK JURXQGFRQGLWLRQV £400.00 - £525.00 50m (125m2) £2000.00 - £2625.00 Compacted gravel surface or similar 2.5m width Route Length 10m (25m2) From £5.00 per m2GHSHQGLQJRQJUDGHFRORXU¿QLVK JURXQGFRQGLWLRQV £125.00 2 50m (125m ) £625.00 Compacted gravel surface or similar 1.5m width Route Length 10m (15m2) From £5.00 per m2GHSHQGLQJRQJUDGHFRORXU¿QLVK JURXQGFRQGLWLRQV £75.00 50m (75m2) £375.00 Footpaths

Sealed asphalt surface 1m width Path Length 10m (10m2) From £16.00 to £21.00 per m2GHSHQGLQJRQJUDGHFRORXU¿QLVK JURXQGFRQGLWLRQV £160.00 - £210.00 50m (50m2) £800.00 - £1050.00

Gravel surface or similar 1m width Path Length 10m (10m2) From 11.50 per m2 WRLQFOXGHWLPEHUHGJLQJERDUGV GHSHQGLQJRQJUDGHFRORXU¿QLVK JURXQGFRQGLWLRQV £115.00 50m (50m2) £575.00

7UDI¿F&DOPLQJ

Dense bitumen macadam base course & wearing course Per m2 £25.00

Car Park

Compacted gravel surface or similar Per m2 £6.00

FSI Gravel Grids - 9 tiles to m2 (excluding delivery) Per m2 £10.75

Picnic Area/Boat Trailer & Horse Box Eeinforcement - Thickness: 100mm - (excluding delivery) Per m2 £8.10

Picnic Area/Boat Trailer & Horse Box Eeinforcement - Thickness: 150mm - (excluding delivery) Per m2 £12.15

Summary of Visioning Study for Denver Complex 21 11.0 Indicative Costings

Item Unit Cost per Unit

Gates (Cost per item excluding construction)

Timber bridleway 2 way gate 1 No. £190.00

Timber pedestrian 2 way gate 1 No. £177.00

Timber full mobility kissing gate 1 No. £159.00

Timber kissing gate 1 No. £130.00

Metal bridleway 2 way gate 1 No. £225.00

Metal pedestrian 2 way gate 1 No. £139.00

0HWDO¿HOG EULGOHZD\ZD\JDWH 1 No. £473.00

Bird Hides - For specs see: (www.bird-hide.co.uk/products/standard-bird-hides/)

3.6m hide (Delivered, Erected & Installed) 1 No. £3300.00

5.4m hide (Delivered, Erected & Installed) 1 No. £4400.00

Observation screen 8 x 2.5 metres 1 No. £1500.00

Boardwalks - For specs see: (http://www.pathsforall.org.uk/pfa/creating-paths/boardwalks-timber-or-plastic.html)

Timber 1.5 metre width with 2 rails (Hardwood between £125.00 - £205.00 per m2 - depending on wood thickness) 10m Length (15m2) £1875.00 - £3075.00

(Softwood between £75.00 - £130.00 per m2 - depending on wood thickness) 10m Length (15m2) £1125.00 - £1950.00

Signage - For Specs see: (http://www.nibrasigns.co.uk/products/cycleway-directional-signage)

7LPEHUIRRWSDWKVLJQ 2DNDUP¿QJHUSRVW 1 No. £470.00

0HWDOIRRWSDWKVLJQ DUP¿QJHUSRVW 1 No. £600.00

Picnic Table - For Specs see: (http://www.broxap.com/seating/picnic-units?p=1)

Timber Picnic Table 1 No. £784.00

Adventure Playground

Adventure Playground Apparatus + delivery & installation Multi-functional equipment £80,000.00

Trim Trail Apparatus + delivery & installation 10 Items £22,000.00

Canoe Portage/Access Points

Canoe Portage/Access Points 1 No. £10,000.00

22 Summary of Visioning Study for Denver Complex RICHARD GLEN RGA ASSOCIATES

Richard Glen Associates Jim Langridge Countryside Consulting 9 The Orchard 34 Crompton Avenue Staverton Bidford on Avon Northamptonshire Warks NN11 6JA B50 4DG

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