New life for a much-loved nature trail as UEA Boardwalk project gets the go-ahead

By: Communications

A narrow wooden boardwalk path winding through dense green woodland, bordered by grass and leafy shrubs, with sunlight filtering through trees .

The University of East Anglia (UEA) project to restore the boardwalk along the Yare Valley will deliver a new accessible, sustainable, and wildlife‑sensitive walkway along a 400m section of the River Yare.

A popular nature boardwalk is set to return, with funding now secured for an extensive revamp.

The project has been sponsored by Norwich City Council and funded by the Greater Norwich Growth Board through the Infrastructure Investment Fund, as well as through the generosity of many local supporters keen to see their beloved route restored.

Although the project officially begins on April 1, construction on site will start in autumn 2026 to avoid disturbance to birds* during the nesting season.

A major step forward for community access to nature

The nature trail around the UEA broad experienced a three-fold increase in visitors over the Covid-19 pandemic and the connected boardwalk has been closed to the public since January 2024 due to health and safety concerns arising from degradation and wear-and-tear.

Its temporary closure has been widely felt by people who use the nature trail for wellbeing, as well as those who commute as it provides a vital route linking Eaton and Cringleford to the University, the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital and Earlham Park.

Over the past year, UEA has worked closely with the Yare Valley Society, Eaton Village Residents’ Association and wider community groups to ensure the new design reflects local priorities and improves long-term sustainability.

Sarah Ashurst, Head of Planning and Regulatory Services, Norwich City Council, and member of the Infrastructure Delivery Board (GNGB) said: “This project is a fantastic example of the kind of infrastructure the Greater Norwich Growth Board is proud to support – investment that strengthens connections, improves access to nature, and is shaped by the people who use it. It reflects our shared ambition to create high‑quality green routes that boost wellbeing while enhancing and protecting local biodiversity, which is supported by the Greater Norwich Green Infrastructure Strategy.

“The design for the UEA Boardwalk has been strongly influenced by local voices, reflecting close work with community groups and partners to make sure what’s delivered genuinely meets local needs. By backing its revival through our Infrastructure Investment Fund, we’re helping to create a route that is more accessible, resilient, and environmentally sensitive, and that will be valued by the community for many years to come.”

Design shaped by local insight and ecological care

The redevelopment features a recycled composite structure designed to last up to 25 years with minimal maintenance.

The new pathway will be widened from 1m to 1.5m wherever space allows, with regular passing places and additional seating to improve accessibility.

Plans also include:

enhanced signage showcasing the valley’s wildlife and connecting walking routes

reshaping of a small pond to support habitat improvements

a new dipping platform for educational use

These features were shaped by an extensive consultation process, including drop‑in sessions at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital and Cringleford’s Willow Centre.

UEA’s commitment to green spaces

Stephen Wells, UEA’s Director of Estates, said: “We’re thrilled to be moving from planning into delivery.

“The boardwalk is an essential part of the Yare Valley and a place where many people connect with nature, travel sustainably, and enjoy the health benefits of our landscape.

“Thanks to the support of our funders and the insight of our community partners, we will be able to create a renewed route that is environmentally resilient, welcoming and fit for the future.”

Georgette Ward, Interim Director of Development, Alumni and Campaigns at UEA said: ‘We are delighted to have secured this funding, and I want to express my thanks to everyone who supported this project.

“The Boardwalk holds a special place for so many of us: students, staff, alumni, and visitors, and it has long been a space where people connect with nature and with one another. This achievement is a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish when people come together with a shared sense of purpose.”

Community partners have also welcomed the announcement.

John Elbro, Chair of The Yare Valley Society, said: “The local community will be tremendously excited by the news that funding for a new and better than ever Boardwalk is confirmed.

“The funding will restore a missing link along the southern stretch of the river and give improved disability access. The new boardwalk will open up opportunities for access to nature and for informal recreation to all the many visitors to the Yare Valley.”

Amber Say, Chair of the Eaton Village Residents’ Association (EVRA), said: “EVRA is delighted to announce its support for the UEA Boardwalk project through a financial donation, reaffirming its commitment to enhancing local community spaces and preserving access to nature.

“When members were presented with plans for the redevelopment of the boardwalk, the proposal was met with overwhelming enthusiasm. Committee members expressed how inspiring it was to see such a thoughtful and meaningful project come to life - one that celebrates and protects the natural environment while making it accessible for the community.

“The boardwalk holds a special place in the hearts of many residents, with fond memories of walks and time spent enjoying the surrounding landscape. EVRA members are excited about the opportunity for a new generation to experience and appreciate this cherished location once it reopens.

“The Association hopes the revitalised boardwalk will become a vibrant space where people can connect, meet, and enjoy the beauty of the local environment. EVRA looks forward to seeing the completed boardwalk and the positive impact it will have on the wider community for years to come.”

Project funding

As well as the £260,899 funding from the Greater Norwich Growth Board, and UEA’s own commitments and in-kind resources, the project also received £64,964 from a developer planning obligation. The total project cost is estimated at £439,708.

UEA is hugely grateful for the generous donations received so far from members of our community. In addition to reaching our target of £5,000 from community donations, EVRA has pledged an additional £2,000 to the project to enhance user experience of the boardwalk.

To complement the main improvement and replacement work, UEA and Yare Valley Society have also applied to the National Lottery Community Fund for further funding to support a community launch event, an engagement programme aimed at attracting new users and additional educational signage and resources.

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