The Great Yarmouth Council meeting on Monday 17 June 2024 focused on several key issues, including the approval of the new Maritime Heritage Centre, the introduction of a community-led housing initiative, and the discussion of the annual tourism report. Decisions were made to proceed with the Maritime Heritage Centre and to support the community-led housing initiative.

Maritime Heritage Centre

The council approved the development of a new Maritime Heritage Centre, aimed at preserving and showcasing the town's rich maritime history. The centre will be located on the seafront and is expected to attract both locals and tourists. Councillors discussed the potential economic benefits, with one noting, This centre will not only preserve our heritage but also boost local businesses by increasing footfall in the area. Concerns were raised about the project's cost, but the majority agreed that the long-term benefits outweighed the initial expenditure.

Community-Led Housing Initiative

A new community-led housing initiative was introduced to address the shortage of affordable housing in Great Yarmouth. The initiative encourages local residents to form housing cooperatives and develop affordable housing projects. The council decided to support this initiative, providing funding and resources to help get it started. One councillor highlighted the importance of community involvement, stating, Empowering residents to take charge of their housing needs will lead to more sustainable and tailored solutions.

Annual Tourism Report

The annual tourism report was presented, showing a significant increase in visitor numbers over the past year. The report highlighted successful events such as the Great Yarmouth Maritime Festival and the Christmas Market, which contributed to the rise in tourism. Councillors discussed strategies to maintain this momentum, including improving infrastructure and marketing efforts. One councillor remarked, We need to build on this success by ensuring our town remains an attractive destination for visitors year-round.

Public Transport Improvements

The council also discussed potential improvements to the town's public transport system. Proposals included increasing the frequency of bus services and introducing new routes to better connect outlying areas with the town centre. While no final decision was made, councillors agreed to conduct further studies to assess the feasibility and cost of these improvements.

Environmental Initiatives

Environmental initiatives were also on the agenda, with a focus on reducing the town's carbon footprint. The council discussed plans to increase green spaces, promote cycling, and implement more recycling programmes. One councillor emphasised the importance of these initiatives, saying, We have a responsibility to future generations to ensure our town is sustainable and environmentally friendly.

Local Business Support

Finally, the council addressed the need to support local businesses, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Proposals included offering grants and reducing business rates for small enterprises. Councillors expressed unanimous support for these measures, recognising the vital role that local businesses play in the community's economic health.