We are asked to accommodate those who live and work in the Close and those who visit the Cathedral and its facilities. The needs of those with disabilities must also be considered and, clearly, it is just not possible to accommodate everyone.
The Chapter has prepared a policy which makes it clear who may park in the Close. This policy is meant to be practical and fair but it will not satisfy everyone and nor could it, under the constraints which we face.
We ask for your patience and co-operation, and the message to all our friends and supporters is ‘If you plan to bring a vehicle to the Cathedral, think where you will park it before you set out!’
The Very Revd Graham Smith
Dean of Norwich
Traffic management
Three principles determine the Chapter's approach to traffic management for the area which it owns.
- The Close should be open to pedestrians, bicycles and cars. The Chapter wishes to keep the use of the area by those three elements in balance.
- To ensure that the parking of motor vehicles does not unduly affect the ambience of the Cathedral Close. This means keeping the west front clear of all cars and, as far as possible, keeping other cars confined to the Cloister car park and those spaces designated for disabled drivers.
- The Chapter has a responsibility towards the safety of all those who use the Close. The volume of traffic needs to be controlled and the speed of all vehicles, including bicycles, restricted to 10mph.
Who can park in the Close
Residents
Vehicles may be parked in the Close on a permit-based system, on a property by property basis, as directed by the Chapter.
Visitors to Residents
Parking is permitted in the Cloister Car Park.
Commercial Tenants
Parking by office staff is confined to defined areas, including Browne's Meadow.
Visitors to Commercial Tenants
Parking is permitted only if there is space available. The gatekeepers' decision is final.
Cathedral Staff
Parking is permitted at the rear of 12 The Close, the Cloister Car Park, the east end of the Cathedral, and the north side. Staff are encouraged to use public transport and bicycles, where possible.
Cathedral Volunteers
Parking is permitted for volunteers attending the Cathedral to carry out a voluntary task but the Chapter reserves the right to limit such parking. Volunteers are encouraged to use a nearby car park or public transport (including Park & Ride) when travelling to and from the Cathedral.
Honorary Canons/Clergy presiding at services
Parking is permitted only when attending a service or event in the Cathedral, or a meeting in the Close.
Choir Parents
Parking is permitted only when attending the Cathedral in connection with Choir rehearsals and services.
Delivery vehicles
Drivers are permitted to enter the Close and park near the property to which a delivery is being made, but are requested to keep their attendance as brief as possible.
Who cannot park in the Close
Visitors to the Cathedral
Unfortunately there is no parking for visitors to the Cathedral, Shop, Library or Refectory (but see Disabled drivers)
Please see Norwich Parking Planner for information on car parking in the city.
Disabled drivers and visitors
Parking facilities are shown our our our site plan.
Limited parking is available only for vehicles bearing an official Blue Badge. Disabled parking permits will be issued by the gatekeepers for a duration of two hours on a first-come, first-served basis.
Three marked spaces are provided at the west front (adjacent to the chair lift in the north west corner) and three marked spaces in the cloister car park.
A space is also provided at the south door for a minibus carrying disabled passengers. It is very helpful if parking for minibuses can be booked in advance by contacting the Cathedral Estates Manager (01603 218309)
To find out more
Parking policy in the Close
Queries in connection with the policy should be addressed to the Cathedral Estates Manager (01603 218309).
Parking policy in the City Centre
Queries should be addressed to the Senior Transportation Manager, Norwich City Council, City Hall, Norwich, NR2 1WP (01603 212516).