Loss of bike park would ‘devastate’ community

By Gbam Godwin On Mar 3, 2026

Loss of bike park would ‘devastate’ community.

Riders are concerned that the loss of a free bike park, which means “everything in the world” to motorcyclists who congregate there, will destroy their community.

The council has announced that the parking spot near Norwich city center market may be relocated as part of a multi-million-pound renovation project.

Users say that if it goes, it will be “devastating” for riders and may affect the market itself. A petition established by cyclists has received 1,200 signatures.

A Norwich City Council representative stated that there were “no plans” to close the bike park and that a survey was being held to “gather views” on its future.

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A large concrete area holds around thirty motorbikes. To the left, the multi‑coloured roofs of Norwich Market stand out brightly, and in the distance you can see the cathedral and an old building. — Evie Cowee-Smith, 17, uses the bike park and says you may meet people of all ages there.”It’s been here for years and it is… a social space for everyone,” she said.

The motorbike park could be modified as part of a larger market renovation. According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, residents were asked at a recent consultation if they wanted to see the bike park altered.

A man wearing a black leather jacket stands in front of a row of motorbikes. He has a long grey beard and a shaved head. Behind him, there are buildings. — James Hampson feels “comfortable leaving the bike here” as it near the police station

James Hampson visits the bike park at least once a week and claims he has made many acquaintances simply by talking about their machines. Described as a “community hub for all”, he responded:

“I’ve spent a lot of time up here building these friendships and it’s good for my mental health.”It means the world to me. You can tell it makes me choke up. I’d be crushed if it ended.”

David Brown, 70, has been riding for almost 20 years and believes the park is “very important”. He explained that moving it farther from the town center would have an impact on market trading.

He stated that the bike park had survived for 90 years and that he would “rather keep this as a reality rather than a memory”. “It is part of Norwich and the history of Norwich,” according to him.

According to a council representative, a recent survey on Norwich Market solicited public feedback on nearby motorbike parking. However, there was no suggestion to close the park. We have not announced any plans to close.

“The purpose of the consultation is simply to gather views from users and the wider community so we can understand how the space is used and begin to shape any ideas or proposals for the future.”