Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association’s plans for new nature walk take a step forward

Persimmon Homes Anglia has donated £4,000 to kick-start a nature walk project at the Norfolk Showground.

The 5km track will lead around the perimeter of the landmark site in Costessey and will connect with pedestrian routes from the neighbouring Festival Park community being developed by Persimmon Homes. The walk is designed to open up the showground parkland and make the venue open to local residents all year round, while celebrating the county’s rural and agricultural heritage. 

The Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association (RNAA) are currently building a new state-of-the-art food hall and restaurant that champions local produce, as the first step in opening up the showground site. Walkers using the new path will be able to stop by to purchase goods from growers and producers from across Norfolk and Suffolk, or enjoy a meal, before continuing their route. They will also be able to find out more about the county’s farming heritage through information boards along the route. 

Persimmon Homes awarded the association £4,000 from their Community Champions fund, designed to create a lasting legacy in the areas within which they are building. 

Jorden Knell, Sales Director for Persimmon Homes Anglia, said: “This is an exciting project and one that will bring huge benefits to the community of Easton, particularly those at Festival Park who will have direct access to the route. “We are delighted to support the RNAA at this early stage of their project and look forward to seeing it taking shape.” 

Mark Nicholas, Managing Director for the RNAA, said: “We want to be a part of the growing community here in Easton, and this nature trail is a part of that vision. We want to bring people here and open up this site to the public throughout the year. Thank you to Persimmon for supporting us during this early stage of fundraising.”  

Persimmon Homes launched the Charles Church element of the Festival Park development this month.