Hay Hill in Norwich reopens after 19-month redevelopment

City folk have been eagerly waiting for the Hay Hill work to finish after it was originally meant to be completed by the end of spring. 

Having secured government funding in late 2020, the council's revamp has included improved seating, better-designed steps, plants and a water feature to create a multipurpose events space. 

The Hay Hill redevelopment has finally opened after work began last year (Image: Robbie Bennett)

A major dispute over the work which had been done and issues with the shipping of specialist stonework from Portugal were among the delays to the project close to Next, Primark, McDonald's and St Peter Mancroft Church. 

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People were enjoying some autumn sunshine at the revamped site on Friday with locals describing it as “beautiful” and “peaceful”. 

"I think it's a lovely relaxing space,” Mark Amond, 60, said. “It is just a shame it opened in the winter and not the summer when people can really enjoy it. 

"I'm sitting here now listening to the water and it is really peaceful." 

The redevelopment also features improved seating and safer designed steps  (Image: Robbie Bennett)

Sasha Laburnum, 37, said: "We came up here to have a look now that it's finally done.

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"I think it's lovely, you've got loads of seating areas now, it is green and it is beautiful." 

Paul and Sue are both happy with how the work has turned out (Image: Robbie Bennett)

The statue of Sir Thomas Browne in its revamped home (Image: Robbie Bennett)

The marble brain and other sculptures, which were a homage to Sir Thomas Browne, have been moved to Eaton Park. 

One couple who were out running errands added: "It's got a nice atmosphere, nicer than it was before too, and nice for the children to be able to enjoy the water.  

"It has got lots of seating and greenery too which is important."