Riverside nature site to be protected and enhanced for the community

The land is by the River Waveney in Palgrave, and is mostly covered in trees and scrub, alongside some more open areas.

It was put up for sale and marketed for its development potential – but Mid Suffolk stepped in to buy it, protecting it for the local community.

Mid Suffolk has now agreed a plan with the River Waveney Trust (RWT), which will take over the management and restoration of the site.

It will form part of the RWT’s ‘River Access for All’ project, reconnecting Waveney Valley communities to their rich waterside heritage.

Cllr Tim Weller, cabinet member for environment, culture and wellbeing, said: “We can see clear potential to enhance wildlife in this area and improve public access - supporting our nature recovery ambitions for the district. It may also help with natural flood management.

“There was a risk this site could’ve been developed, so I am pleased we have been able to buy it, and with the help of the River Waveney Trust, this can become a really valued community asset.”

It is just over a hectare, with a public right of way running from Palgrave into Diss up the western side - but otherwise no formal access through the site.

Cllr Weller added: “There is good scope to change this, with the potential for a new informal circular path through the site, allowing local people to reconnect with the River Waveney.”

Todd Strehlow, River Waveney Trust chair, said: “We are delighted to be working with Mid Suffolk District Council on this exciting project. Although the River Waveney flows alongside Diss, there are surprisingly few places where people can get close to and enjoy the river, making this a unique opportunity to help more people connect with it. 

“The site is already a very special place, with reedbeds, wet woodland and some beautiful old oak trees. We are really looking forward to working with the communities of Diss and Palgrave, and welcoming new volunteers, to help care for and enhance the site, bringing it back to its best for both nature and local residents.”

The site was purchased by Mid Suffolk for £25,000 in 2024, and the management plan with the RWT agreed recently.
Improving biodiversity and nature recovery is one of the actions set out in the council’s Mid Suffolk Plan - its commitment to make the district thrive economically, culturally, socially and environmentally.