Police have had to respond to calls from angry locals living near where a proposed live music venue could be placed, wanting the "application urgently reviewed."

The former United Reformed Church (URC), located in Princes Street close to the junction with Elm Hill, received an application last month to have its use changed to an "arts and dance facility with capacity to host live music events with the option to serve food and drink."

Many living in the area however are firmly against the plans with flyers circulating to "say no to the nightclub."

Norwich Evening News: The consultation date is due to be finished on September 27, with a target date of September 29The consultation date is due to be finished on September 27, with a target date of September 29 (Image: CAM Architects)READ MORE: Can you help family find memorial bench of late city teacher and musician?

Now calls for the police to investigate the plans have been put forward.

James Lawrence, who lives in Princes Street, contacted the police saying folk living in the area had "been misled" and that they "can't fathom why the police seem to be so relaxed about this."

Norwich Evening News: James Lawrence said I can't fathom why the Police seem to be so relaxed about thisJames Lawrence said I can't fathom why the Police seem to be so relaxed about this (Image: James Lawrence)"The conservation area of Elm Hill and Princes Street fall outside of the city's 'late night activity zone' as well" he added.

In a letter back to Mr Lawrence the designing out crime officer, Penny Turner, said: "I wish to assure you we are aware that residents have raised concerns and to this end, there have been further enquiries made by myself and others, regarding this planning application.

"I have also discussed the design and access statement with the sergeant of the local policing unit on Friday (September 22).

Norwich Evening News: An example of what the venue could look like if plans are agreedAn example of what the venue could look like if plans are agreed (Image: CAM Architects)READ MORE: City's war memorial vandalised after graffiti 'tags' spotted on walls

"This application being a 'change of use' with no alteration to the layout, gave me little scope for physical crime prevent advice to recommend within my remit.

"I did however make a licensing colleague aware of the application as this would be examined by them and other units dealing with night-time economy."

The consultation date is due to be finished on September 27, with a target date of September 29.

Norwich Evening News: The United Reformed Church, located in Princes Street, at the junction of Elm HillThe United Reformed Church, located in Princes Street, at the junction of Elm Hill (Image: Newsquest)

What the cops say

A police spokeswoman said: "We're aware of some concerns in the local community about the application to change the use of the former United Reformed Church in Princes Street to an arts and dance facility.  

"These concerns have been raised with our licensing and the Norwich East Safer Neighbourhood Teams. 

"Officers have asked for further clarification from Norwich City Council on the intended purpose of the building as part of the change of use application.

"We continue to assess the situation."