PRD has supported Norwich City Council across a series of commissions that are shaping a more inclusive, resilient and purpose-led economy for the city. Together, this work is building the strategic foundations for renewal, spanning governance reform, economic strategy and delivery planning for major regeneration.

We led the development of the Norwich 2040 Inclusive Economy Vision, a 15-year strategy to help Norwich become the happiest, healthiest and most liveable city in the UK. Underpinned by a detailed evidence base and wide-ranging stakeholder engagement, the Vision identifies five long-term outcomes for prosperity, planet, potential, place and promotion. It now acts as the city’s investment prospectus and informs new economic development strategies.

In parallel, we were commissioned to define the economic purpose of East Norwich – the East of England’s largest brownfield regeneration area, set to deliver over 3,000 homes and 4,000 jobs. Our work was underpinned by a focus on deliverability, shaping a market-facing vision for East Norwich as a hub for growth, innovation and liveability. We tested delivery routes, assessed viability challenges, and mapped the role East Norwich can play in supporting both the city and region’s evolving journey.

Alongside this, we recommended local government organisation. In doing so, we highlighted evidence to show the urban area’s growth potential, articulating how a unitary authority focused on the needs of the Norwich urban area would be best placed to tackle long-standing barriers to resident prosperity.

Together, these commissions reflect PRD’s ability to integrate evidence, strategy and delivery thinking. Our work in Norwich has brought these three tenets together, allowing the council to define a credible and market-facing approach to inclusive growth, while also making the case for investment, empowering local leadership, and aligning major development with broader outcomes for people and place.