Shake-up for Norwich’s civic watchdog after decision to depart from key role

John Litster Administrator and Secretary to the Trustees The Norwich Society (Image: Archant)

John Litster, administrator of the organisation, which has a history of fighting for the city's heritage stretching back to 1923, is to leave the post in the summer.

While he intends to continue as an active volunteer with the society, he decided he did not want to continue in the administrator post he took on in July last year.

Jonathan Hooton, chairman of the society, said: 'I would like to thank John for the excellent job he has done this year in his brief time as administrator.

'The Norwich Society has been working hard for Norwich since 1923 and, in some ways, has become a victim of its own success.

'The workload for the administrator has increased over the years, and the committee structure does not necessarily reflect the challenges that Norwich is currently facing.

'Greater centralisation, changes in planning laws and austerity cuts mean the role of local authorities in caring for our heritage has been greatly reduced.

'It is time the structure of the Norwich Society reflected these changes if we are to remain as an effective city watchdog.

'Many aspects of our fine city are under threat and the need for a strong and influential society is greater than ever.'

Mr Hooton said it would be a good time to re-examine the way the society operates. That means the post of administrator will be replaced by the role of co-ordinator. A new officer - an honorary secretary - is also planned.

Mr Hooton said: 'This provides an excellent opportunity for someone to join the executive committee and help make a real impact on the society's future.

'We are also reviewing and redefining the roles of the other officers and the structure and governance of our committees.

'These are exciting changes that will lead, I hope, to an even more effective civic society.'

The society, which played a key role in saving Elm Hill from being demolished, regularly contributes to debates over the city's future.

This week, a panorama of Norwich's skyline, by John Moray-Smith, was unveiled after it was restored to its former glory following the society's rescue of it.