Norfolk County Council has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting local communities with the approval of 99 new highway improvement schemes for 2026-27, delivered in partnership with town and parish councils across Norfolk. 

Papers published today ahead of next month’s Cabinet meeting highlight how the Parish Partnership Programme, now entering its 15th year, gives local communities a voice in shaping the highways enhancements that matter most to them – whether that’s improving pedestrian safety, slowing vehicle speeds, or making it easier to walk, cycle or access local services. 

Cllr Graham Plant, cabinet member for highways, infrastructure and transport said:

 “The Parish Partnership scheme was first launched in 2011 and continues to be one of the council’s most successful collaborative programmes. The scheme allows us to work together, directly with parish councils so that we can deliver the improvements that communities tell us they need – projects that make everyday journeys safer, easier and more enjoyable. From improved footways to speed mitigation measures, these are practical enhancements that make a real difference for residents across Norfolk.” 

This year’s programme represents a total investment of £769,034, made possible through the longstanding 50/50 funding model. Town and parish councils will collectively contribute £384,517, matched by £384,517 from Norfolk County Council, enabling more than twice as many small-scale schemes to be delivered than could be funded by the council alone. 

In total local councils submitted 99 bids for 2026/27 and all were approved as viable schemes after being carefully assessed against value for money, community outcomes, safety benefits and compliance. 

(Picture: Norfolk County Council)