The development of the McCarthy Stone site saw a significant bite taken out of the green space of the Yare Valley corridor. To compensate, environmental conditions were placed on the planning application approval. In early 2024 the Yare Valley Society became concerned about the slow progress being made towards fulfilling the conditions. It sent a report to the Norwich City council detailing deficiencies. The council acted swiftly, and progress has been made. In October YVS submitted a second report drawing attention to what remained to be done. YVS is pleased to note that most of the promised on-site habitats such as bird boxes, bee bricks and bat boxes had been installed. So far so good, but much remains to be done including planting the green open space to the southwest of the site, the hedging on Bluebell Rd, and the openings for hedgehogs in the boundary fence. While work proceeds there is no public access to the green space.
On the positive side the green open space has been part seeded, paths laid out and seats installed. The chance must not be missed in the present season to plant the promised trees in the green open space.
When work is completed, the increase in habitats and the landscaped green space will make a valuable contribution to local biodiversity and to accessible public green space. The green space will link with the Strawberry Field meadow, and its north and south ends will have links to the Yare Valley Walk and so increase the options for short circular walks.