Redevelopment Plan May Force Scrap Recycler to Move

A plan by the city of Norwich to redevelop its downtown is looking at the possibility of taking over one of the most scenic parts of the city – access to the waterfront. However, the site is presently the home to one of the oldest businesses in the city. According to Walter Seder, owner of Shetucket Iron & Metal, the scrap yard, in operation for 82 years, is the second oldest business in the city.

While Norwich’s mayor only recently unveiled the plan to the city at large, according to Seder there has been discussions about the project going for around 15 years. While the discussion up to now have only been modest at best, Seder feels that starting now discussions between the scrap company and the city will be more direct. The company recently held several meetings with city officials.

Seder does say that he is open to the possibility of moving, although one of the key requirements for the facility is to have direct access to a rail line. At the present time the company sits on the Providence & Worcester Rail line.

Another issue, Seder says, is to stay located in the Norwich area, close to its customer base. The company operates on four acres.

While he feels attention will grow toward redevelopment, the process will likely take around two years before the city has reached the phase where they will look to claim the scrap yard land.

As to the city’s plans, Seder says, “It is a positive thing. We aren’t going to stand in the way. It is important for the resurgence to the city of Norwich.”

The plan, unveiled early this month, aims to convert waterfront property to a mix of residential and retail environment, as well as office building and green areas.