History of RTTA/TBMC

The RTTA was founded in 1948 to protect and to enhance the interests of those with property on the banks of the River Thurne in the parishes of Martham, Repps-with-Bastwick, Potter Heigham and Ludham, part of the Norfolk Broads.

From the 1970s until 1985, the Broads Authority's express wish was partially to clear the banks of the River Thurne of bungalows and to return the banks to their natural state.

In 1985 the RTTA founded Thurne Bungalows Management Company Limited (TBMC), a limited company wholly independent of the RTTA. TBMC Ltd bought a ninety-nine year Head Lease from Anglian Water, the then owners of the river bank. TBMC then sublet one hundred and eighty-one of the plots to the existing tenants. These plots are now known as Lease A. Unfortunately, tenants of forty-two of the plots were given only a fifteen year lease (now known as Lease B) via a Head Lease bought by the landlord, the Broads Authority.

In the year 2000 these B Leases expired and tenants were expected by BA to clear their plots. The RTTA fought this decision and won an eighty-five year lease for them (simultaneously expiring with Lease A). The RTTA was not involved in Lease renewal negotiations.

TBMC Ltd's primary role is overseeing the Headlease and the 184 Under-leases derived from it. They are dedicated to maintaining the area and supporting our community by providing essential services, including refuse collection and cesspit emptying. Their goal is to ensure a well-maintained and enjoyable environment for all River Thurne bungalow owners.

Riverside Properties

Dutch Tutch is one of the properties given listed status. It is on the north bank of the River Thurne, downstream of Potter Heigham Bridge.

The chalet is the base of a Helter Skelter that used to stand on Britannia Pier and the outer-house was the top. The photo on the left was taken 1905. It was moved to it's current location by horse and cart, likely in 1910.

The current owners wrote an article on it's history and the myths surrounding it. You can download a copy of this article by clicking on the link below.

Part of the charm of our stretch of the River Thurne is the diverse nature of the properties, each with it's own individual character. Historic England have recently recognised their significance, and a select few were recently given listed status.

Riverbankers

In October 2017, the Martin family celebrated 50 years of ownership of maisonette PH60 1967-2017 with a fundraising Macmillan coffee morning. Four generations of 'Martins' – plus Di Cornell in the blue coat, the Chair of the RTTA - joined in this worthwhile cause where an amazing £343.55 was raised!