Investing in Our Town
17 July 2026
Alongside our community-led projects, the Council continues to invest in improving the town’s public spaces and natural environment. Recent work has included biodiversity enhancements within the Heritage Wildlife Garden, access improvements in Diss Park and the installation of attractive self-watering planters throughout the town centre.
Looking ahead, work continues on several important long-term projects. Last week, we met with our appointed architects to begin shaping plans for a new community facility on the Diss Youth & Community Centre site. Discussions focused on refining the project brief, assessing the site's potential, exploring sustainable design and construction options, and developing initial concept proposals. The meeting also highlighted the importance of engaging local residents, community groups and young people at an early stage to help ensure the new facility reflects the needs and aspirations of the wider community.
We were delighted to welcome so many members of the community to our recent Full Council meeting, where there was significant interest in supporting our wider efforts to improve drainage and the health of the Mere. The first meeting of the working party will take place this month, focusing on establishing baseline water quality data against which the effectiveness of future interventions can be measured. These projects remain key priorities as we continue to invest in initiatives and facilities that will benefit residents for years to come.
We have also submitted a funding bid to South Norfolk Council to support enhanced youth provision in Diss. Students at Diss High School have shared their views on what such a service could look like and, subject to funding being secured, we will work with an experienced youth provider and local partner organisations to design and deliver a programme that improves opportunities, strengthens a sense of belonging, and supports the wellbeing of young people in Diss and the surrounding area.
