CPRE Norfolk President shares his concerns for the county at our AGM

On Tuesday, 5th May CPRE Norfolk marked its’ major milestone year with a highly successful and engaging Annual General Meeting for 2026, held in the Weston Room at the beautiful Norwich Cathedral.

Chaired by Treasurer, George Ridgway, the AGM brought together members, supporters and local stakeholders for an evening that combined reflection, forward-thinking discussion, and lively debate about the future of the county’s countryside.

A highlight of the event was the annual lecture, delivered by CPRE Norfolk’s recently appointed President, Sir Nicholas Bacon. In a wide-ranging and thoughtful address, Sir Nicholas shared insights into his vision for the stewardship of his own estate and spoke candidly about some of the most pressing challenges facing Norfolk’s rural landscape. Addressing the issue of housing growth, Sir Nicholas acknowledged the need for new homes but emphasised that development must be carefully planned around community need. He raised concerns about the potential impact of large-scale new towns, stressing that they should not come at the expense of the county’s unique character and natural beauty.

A recurring theme in his lecture was responsibility – particularly that of developers. Sir Nicholas argued that those building in the countryside must take a long-term view, ensuring high-quality design, proper infrastructure, and genuine environmental consideration, rather than short-term gains.

Renewable energy also featured prominently in his remarks. While expressing support for the transition to cleaner energy sources, he highlighted the importance of siting projects appropriately, balancing national energy needs with the protection of valued landscapes.

The audience responded with clear enthusiasm, engaging actively throughout the evening. A lively question-and-answer session followed the lecture, with attendees raising thoughtful points on planning policy, land use, biodiversity, and the future direction of rural development in Norfolk. The depth and range of questions reflected both the expertise and passion of those present.

Sir Nicolas’s lecture was also reported in the Eastern Daily Press.

The event served not only as a formal AGM but as a meaningful forum for discussion at a pivotal time – both for CPRE as it celebrates a century of campaigning, and for Norfolk as it navigates significant change in its countryside. George also emphasised the urgent need for new trustees, who could commit the time required to undertake the role, to please come forward.

CPRE Norfolk leaves its 2026 AGM with renewed energy, a clear sense of purpose, and a strong mandate from its engaged membership to continue championing the county’s landscapes for generations to come.

About Sir Nicholas Bacon

Sir Nicholas is known nationally for his environmental and charitable leadership. He currently chairs The Queen’s Green Canopy initiative – the nationwide tree-planting project launched to mark Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee – as well as The Royal Agricultural Society of the Commonwealth, the Plant Health Alliance, and the Trustees of The Royal Collection. He is also an Honorary Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Foresters.

Locally, Sir Nicholas has been deeply involved in Norfolk life, with leading roles at Norwich Cathedral, the Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association, Easton College, the University of East Anglia, and Norfolk PACT, a taskforce tackling rural crime.

His previous public roles include serving as President of the Royal Horticultural Society (2013–2020), High Sheriff of Norfolk (2005), and Lord Warden of the Stannaries for the Duchy of Cornwall (2006 – 2022).