Campaigners have successfully halted plans to demolish a 1950s bus shelter in Sheringham after the town council voted to preserve the structure.
The shelter, located on Station Approach near the heritage North Norfolk Railway, had been scheduled for removal as part of a new transport hub. Norfolk County Council argued it did not meet modern accessibility standards and was unsafe.
At an emergency meeting on Tuesday, Sheringham Town Council voted six to five against demolition. The decision followed nine days of protests, during which residents camped out in the shelter to prevent its removal. The county council expressed disappointment but confirmed it would “stop all work and withdraw from the site as soon as possible”.
Protesters contested an eviction notice, arguing that only the town council, as landowner, had authority to remove them. Prior to the vote, County Hall officials warned the town council it could be liable for part of a £500,000 bill for the transport hub project if the shelter remained.
Campaigner Rob Emery said demonstrators were “absolutely ecstatic” but would not leave until receiving legal assurances from the county council. He added: “What we’ve shown is local democracy still matters.”
Sheringham Mayor Sue Brisbane acknowledged the difficult position, stating: “I understand some people are unhappy and I regret that but why did they not say anything months ago? I do not appreciate being pressured into decisions or having my integrity questioned by people… who do not understand due process.”
Liberal Democrat councillor Liz Withington highlighted the shelter’s significance, noting that only four to six similar bus shelters remain in the UK. She said: “It is important from a national perspective that we preserve buildings of this era.”
Following the vote, a county council spokesperson said it understood the reasons for the decision in the context of “intense media and local scrutiny” and would respect the council’s decision. Certain safety and footpath improvements associated with the transport hub scheme will now need review.
MP Steff Aquarone praised campaigners for their persistence, acknowledging their role in protecting the historic structure.
