Area Overview for Dereham Withburga Ward

Area Information

Living in Dereham Withburga Ward offers a quiet rural experience within the Breckland district of Norfolk. This district borough unitary ward covers an area of just 4.3 square kilometres, making it a compact community. As of June 2024, the population stood at approximately 6,005 residents. The ward is situated in East Dereham, which serves as one of the main settlements in the Mid Norfolk parliamentary constituency. Locally known simply as Dereham Withburga Ward, the area takes its name from Withburga, a 7th-century Anglo-Saxon saint associated with East Dereham. The settlement has been significant since at least the 19th century when it formed a key part of the constituency created in 1885. Current ward boundaries reflect local government revisions and recent constituency boundary reviews conducted in 2023. Coordinates of 52.69°N and 0.93°E place the ward in central Norfolk, east of the Midlands and north of London. Daily life here revolves around this established historic settlement, offering a stable environment for those seeking a slice of East Anglian life without the density of larger towns.

Area Type
District Borough Unitary Ward
Area Size
4.3 km²
Population
Not available
Population Density
Not available

Demographics

The community in Dereham Withburga Ward presents a distinctly mature demographic profile. The median age of residents is 70 years, indicating an older population compared to the national average. While the most common age range is listed as total, this high median figure suggests the ward functions primarily as a retirement destination or a location for older families. Home ownership is prevalent, with 60% of dwellings owned by their occupants. This high rate suggests stability and long-term residents rather than a transient rental market. The ward contains a population of approximately 6,005 people spread across 4.3 square kilometres. Specific data regarding household composition, the breakdown of accommodation types, predominant ethnic groups, and religious affiliations are not detailed in the available records. The absence of specific deprivation statistics means we cannot quantify wealth gaps or income levels within the ward. However, the clear preference for ownership points to a community invested in its local property market. Residents likely value the privacy and space associated with owning a home in a rural borough setting.

Household Size

total
most common

Accommodation Type

total
most common

Tenure

60
majority

Ethnic Group

total
most common

Religion

total
most common

Household Composition

total
most common

Age

70
median
Age: Total
most common

Household Deprivation

N/A
with no deprivation

NS-SEC

24
in Lower managerial occupations

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Planning

Planning Constraints

  • Flood Risk
    Premium
  • Ramsar Wetland Sites
    Premium
  • Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
    Premium
  • Protected Nature Reserve
    Premium
  • Protected Woodland
    Premium

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the community feel like in Dereham Withburga Ward?
With a median age of 70 and 60% home ownership, Dereham Withburga Ward feels like a mature, stable community. Approximately 6,005 residents live within 4.3 square kilometres, centred on the historic East Dereham settlement. The ward reflects traditional Norfolk values with long-term residents rather than a transient population. The name Honours the 7th-century Anglo-Saxon saint Withburga, linking the modern community to its deep historical roots in the Mid Norfolk constituency.
How reliable is the internet for working from home here?
Digital connectivity is superb in the ward. Fixed broadband scores 95 out of 100, indicating excellent quality suitable for heavy internet use. Residents do not face the slow speeds or interference common in many rural areas. This high availability ensures that professionals working from home or families streaming entertainment can rely on uninterrupted service throughout the 4.3 square kilometre area.
Is Dereham Withburga Ward safe to live in?
Safety levels are high with low crime risk. The assessment gives the ward a score of 71 out of 100 for crime, marking it as a safe neighbourhood with below-average crime rates. Flood risk is also negligible, with a low score of 8.29 out of 100. These figures confirm that daily life in this part of the Breckland district is secure for families and retirees alike.

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