Broadland District Council used European funding from LEADER for the work which included showcasing the many historical highlights and facilities in the village has to offer. The council applied to the fund to regenerate the riverside area and point visitors in the direction of the many interesting buildings, businesses and amenities in the village.

The work included posting new history and information boards at a variety of locations around the area to let people know what there is to see and where to go. The siting of the boards was chosen so the information is readily available to people arriving by boat, on foot, in the car, train or via the national cycle route.

Among the attractions highlighted are the 13th century St John the Baptist Church, Pettit’s Animal Adventure Park and the Humpty Dumpty Brewery together with local facilities including a playground and village hall.

Regeneration work has been carried out along the river and the plastic bins have been replaced by ones used in national parks to fit in better with the environment.

Broadland District Councillor, Grant Nurden, who is a member of the council’s Environmental Excellence Panel said the aim was to encourage visitors to venture into the village and not just stay by the riverside.

Cllr Nurden said:

“Many people visiting the area know how beautiful and relaxing it is to sit or walk by the river – particularly those who have arrived by boat. What they don’t know about are the many gems to be seen in the village, from one of the oldest churches in the country to the animal park and the local brewery. “We have worked closely with the village team and the parish council to make these improvements. The funding has given us the chance to signpost visitors to the many sites worth visiting in Reedham. “As soon as it is safe, following the COVID-19 crisis, we want to welcome visitors to this beautiful part of our district.”