Plans to turn Debenhams into student flats blocked

Plans to transform a landmark city centre building into student flats has been rejected, leaving the future of the derelict site in doubt.

Norwich's planning committee refused permission for the former Debenhams building to be demolished and rebuilt to accommodate 377 student rooms.

The 1950s former department store in Red Lion Street has been boarded up since 2021 and will now remain an "eyesore" indefinitely.

Posted By: jamesward on February 12th 2026 at 13:00:12

Message Thread

Plans to turn Debenhams into student flats blocked (General Chat) - jamesward, Feb 12, 13:00:12
- UEA and others were against it (General Chat) - Jester, Feb 12, 15:53:12
- Proposal was passed on a second vote after Green councillors pissed off early. (General Chat) - The Gaffer, Feb 12, 13:37:55
  - What? lol (n/m) (General Chat) - jamesward, Feb 12, 13:41:26
    - Zack Polanski is in Norwich this weekend I believe (n/m) (General Chat) - phrankin, Feb 12, 13:45:40
      - looking forward to a mention in Rotten Boroughs (n/m) (General Chat) - Henclrikus, Feb 12, 13:52:32

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