Citizen magazine Winter 2024 - text version - Plans for Anglia Square

Plans for Anglia Square 

A brighter future beckons for Anglia Square after years of failed development bids and lack of investment after the council said it was looking to buy the site.

The run-down 1960s shopping centre has been in desperate need of regeneration for decades.

Plans to redevelop the centre by Weston Homes were shelved earlier this year leaving owners Colombia Threadneedle to put the site up for sale.

However, earlier in the year the council announced it was involved in discussions to buy the site in order to deliver a comprehensive regeneration package.

Councillor Mike Stonard, leader of Norwich City Council, said: “We are looking to buy the site so we can shape the future of Anglia Square in the interests of local people.

“We’ve been really clear that we don’t want to see Anglia Square bought out by land speculators who will either just sit on the land or develop it out in bits.

“We want to create a new Anglia Square featuring truly affordable homes, an eclectic mix of retail and leisure outlets and well-paid jobs for local people.”
 
Plans could include 1,100 new homes, a wide variety of retail, office and leisure spaces with vibrant landscaped gardens, community facilities, public realm and important new cycling links across the city.

Cllr Stonard added: “The redevelopment of Anglia Square is a transformative opportunity for Norwich and beyond. It can deliver substantial benefits that will resonate throughout the city and the region and tackle engrained poverty while creating a beacon of modern, urban living in the heart of one of England’s most historic cities.”