Norwich City Council has acquired Anglia Square Shopping Centre in the north of Norwich, Norfolk, UK, setting the stage for the area's transformation.

The purchase is a key component of the council's plan to revitalise this part of Norwich, aiming to introduce approximately 1,100 new homes, business opportunities, and local employment.

Norwich City Council, with the aid of Homes England, has been pivotal in securing the site's future. Homes England's support has reportedly been key in enabling the council to finalise the purchase from Columbia Threadneedle Investments.

The acquisition concludes a period of uncertainty and stalled development efforts for the site.

Previously, the site was under the ownership of Weston Homes, which had obtained planning permission for development but opted to withdraw earlier this year.

Homes England provided the funding for the council's acquisition and submitted a bid for additional grant funding to support the necessary demolition and infrastructure development.

The redevelopment vision for Anglia Square includes the creation of diverse retail, office, and leisure spaces. The plans also feature landscaped gardens, a new neighbourhood centre, enhanced public spaces, and improved cycling routes throughout the city.

Anglia Square, a well-known local shopping destination in Norwich, will continue to serve the community during this transition. The council said it is committed to engaging with current traders to assess their needs and offer business support throughout the redevelopment process.

Norwich City Council leader and councillor Mike Stonard said: “We are now in the driving seat to create a new Anglia Square with affordable homes, diverse retail and leisure outlets, a new neighbourhood centre, and well-paid jobs for local people."

“What we will achieve in Anglia Square will resonate throughout the city and beyond. I am convinced it will become a beacon of modern, low-carbon, urban living in the heart of one of England’s most historic cities.”