Plans to reopen a long-deserted former Norwich furniture store have been revealed.
Crystal House in Cattle Market Street has remained empty since Bullards' gin distillery left in May 2022 and had previously been home to Warings Furniture and spent 20 years as Kellers Model Marque.
There had been plans to turn it and the former Owl Sanctuary pub opposite into housing but an application submitted in 2016 was rejected amid claims it would "result in the loss of historic fabric".
In 2018 it eventually became a gin distillery, restaurant and bar, but the venture closed last year after Bullards bosses decided it was "not practical".
Now mortgage broker, Haysto, has submitted plans to turn the Grade II-listed building into offices adding a fire escape and cycle store to its rear.
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The plans will come as a relief to those living and working nearby who have been irritated by its erratic security alarm which can often be heard going off.
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Haysto's application said the building would house 60 employees and pointed out that the building's condition was fast deteriorating.
It said: "The building is slowly creeping into a state of disrepair and essential work is required to ensure the future of the building.
"The significance of Crystal House is fully acknowledged and works have been carefully considered, resulting in a sensitive proposal that does not result in harm to the asset.
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"Occupation of Crystal House will bring much-needed life and interest to an area of Norwich where various neighbouring buildings currently lie dormant."
Planned work would see the company refurbish the building's interior with a red colour scheme and new workstations.
Those wishing to comment on the plans will have until June 1, and it is hoped a decision on the plans will be made by July 4.
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