Clive Lewis MP at Plantation Garden with local residents and Labour Party councillors Karen Davis, Hugo Malik and Nelson County Council Candidate Jess Barnard – photo supplied

On Friday 20th January 2017, Clive Lewis, Labour MP for Norwich South, visited Plantation Garden – which potentially faces having access to revoked at the end of this week. Clive met with dozens of local residents who are concerned about this and wants to make sure public access to the Garden is maintained.

Clive has written to Norwich City Council and the owner of MJB Hotels near the Garden, to reiterate how much public support there is for the Garden, to push for continued access for members of the public and to ask that he is updated on the progress made in making sure Plantation Garden can remain open to the public.

Clive Lewis says:

“I’ve had contact from many constituents who are deeply concerned that public access to the Garden will be lost either temporarily, for a long time or permanently. The Plantation Garden is a unique space which is greatly appreciated by the local community, so I am keen that this situation is resolved as soon as possible. I’m aware this is a complicated situation and that efforts are being made to reach this outcome. Health and safety is of vital importance and should be taken into consideration, but all options must be thoroughly explored to make sure full and free access is maintained.”

Plantation Garden was untended for many years, having originally been developed in a former chalk quarry by Henry Trevor. After the Second World war it was neglected for many years, but is now cared for by an enthusiastic trust and is cherished by Norwich residents and visitors alike. Access is through the grounds of the former Beeches Hotel. This once charming building is now part of the MJB group, hotels aimed at people who do not want to see through the window as they are all blanked out.