Plans unveiled for new hotel and flats near Norwich train station

New details showing the scale of a huge redevelopment project in the centre of Norwich have been revealed.

The Hotel Nelson in Norwich, opposite the train station, is set to be demolished and rebuilt along with dozens of new homes and student accommodation.

While the project has been in the works for nearly two years, few details had been released about it.

However, at a meeting this week it emerged that the new properties will provide homes for around 600 people.

The developers, hospitality giant Whitbread, are hoping for work on the rebuild to get under way next year and are set to submit a formal application in the coming weeks.

The proposals include the complete demolition of the existing Nelson.

It will be replaced by a new hotel with 243 rooms, as well as commercial space for restaurants and cafes.

But the defining feature of the scheme is two large blocks of student flats, which will have a total of 491 rooms.

Questions have already been raised about the need and viability of more student accommodation in the city.

There will also be a block of 75 residential apartments and a large plaza on the riverfront, designed to host markets, concerts and other events.

The development does not include any affordable housing.

Dann Burr, representing architects Sheppard Robson, said: “The buildings are tired and dilapidated and we know there is some antisocial behaviour in the area.

“The existing hotel does not meet the expectations one would have when arriving in Norwich and this project would change that.”

Following an initial meeting with members of Norwich City Council on Thursday, the developers expect to submit their formal planning application in the next few weeks.

This will be considered by City Hall early next year with a view for work to begin as soon as a decision is reached.

The site was occupied by the Great Eastern Hotel until it was demolished in 1963 and the Nelson was built in its place in 1971.

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