A £1.5m project to redevelop a corner shop with nine new flats has run into problems.
Plans submitted by HS Property Developers sought to upgrade the Premier convenience store on the junction of Cadge Road and Earlham Grove in Norwich.
This would have included the introduction of a bakery and larger medicines area, alongside the development of a rear extension to provide new storage and office space.
Two pairs of semi-detached homes and a three-storey extension featuring four flats would also have been constructed at the site.
However, Norwich City Council has rejected the plans on the basis that it was out of character with the area, the detailed external amenity space was insufficient, a harmful level of activity and disturbance could arise and that there was insufficient parking for potential occupants.
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Planning officers also raised concerns about increased phosphate levels, adding that the proposal did not incorporate the existing trees as an integral part of the design and the site's access would not meet the requirements of users.
Planning agent for the proposal, Jon Boon, from Norwich-based Jon Boon Architects, said the plans would be reviewed and resubmitted.
"The developer is still keen for this to go ahead," he said.
"Of course, you want to get the best value for a site.
"But on this occasion there is too much.
"We will now look to slightly reduce and redesign the plans.
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"Hopefully we can reach an agreement with the council very soon."
Speaking on the proposals last year, Dr Kevin Maguire, Labour city councillor for the Wensum ward, said: "For the North Earlham community, it is important that the new shop space offers a good range of products.
"I welcome additional home provision providing that it is of a good quality and let at an affordable rent."
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