The longstanding tenant of an historic bridge house in Norwich has called for it to be protected after the council revealed it could be demolished.
The Eastern Daily Press writes:
Reginald Dann has lived in the Carrow Bridge House, on Carrow Road, for 57 years, having moved in when his father became bridgemaster and inheriting the lease from his mother after she died. The property, which was built in the 1920s, is now badly in need of repairs and has been declared unsafe for residence. Norfolk County Council says Mr Dann needs to be rehoused and has asked Norwich City Council to find him nearby accommodation. They have confirmed that the property is ‘beyond economic repair’ and that demolishing the building is being considered.
Mr Dann, 69, said: ‘Even if I don’t live there, it would be a real shame to see it demolished because it’s a part of the history of Norwich. I’ve lived there since I was 12 so it’s got sentimental value to me, but even when I have to move elsewhere I think it should stay.’
Last year, the council considered putting the property on a list of buildings considered surplus to requirements, which led to fears that it could be sold. At the meeting the proposal was due to be debated at, they decided against the move.
A county council spokesperson said: ‘There are a number of repairs required to the building which once fully assessed could lead to the option of demolition, however, at this time no final decision has yet been made. Although it was our hope that the tenant could stay in the property at Carrow Bridge unfortunately the property continues to deteriorate. A recent review has identified several risks attached to the building and environment, which are beyond economic repair and because of this we believe the property may become unsafe to live in.’
Mr Dann said he had initially been offered a house in Sprowston, which turned out to be unavailable, and hoped to stay close to the bridge house.
