A prominent city centre store that has stood empty for more than three years will FINALLY be filled after plans for a new bank were approved. 

The former H Samuel in Gentlemans Walk is set to be converted into a branch of The Co-operative Bank.

Norwich Evening News: The site has been vacant for more than three yearsThe site has been vacant for more than three years (Image: Newsquest)

The jewellers pulled out of the space during the pandemic in March 2020 and the premises has been vacant since.

Proposals will see the site be completely renovated, with a contemporary shopfront entrance installed alongside an ATM machine.

The ground floor will become a space for counters and offices, while the lower ground will be converted into an archive and communal staff area. 

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A litter bin currently positioned outside the building will also be repositioned.

The news comes as the Norwich area faces a decline in banking services.

Most recently, the Co-operative branch in London Street has been put up for sale - while the controversial closure of the Mile Cross NatWest will leave the suburb with just one bank.

Norwich Evening News: The proposed Co-op BankThe proposed Co-op Bank (Image: Norwich City Council)

In a bid to reduce the number of branches closing, government plans have emerged to pressure banks to ensure customers have access to cash within three miles.

Any company failing to do this could face a fine from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).