The river was the route from which raw materials were imported and finished products exported via Great Yarmouth. At this time there was industrial prosperity in Norwich due largely to the arrival of religious refugees from Europe and the settlement of a large number of weavers, dyers, goldsmiths and other skilled craftsmen.
The river facilitated trade between Great Yarmouth and other locations for raw materials and finished goods. Industrial growth in Norwich occurred due to the immigration of religious exiles and the settlement of skilled workers such as weavers, dyers, goldsmiths, and artisans.