Confusion surrounds the major redevelopment of a former nightclub in Norwich after an anticipated opening date came and went. 

Plans were approved in 2020 for the former Mercy club at 82-90 Prince of Wales Road to be converted into 49 flats, a coffee shop, offices and two new floors with penthouse apartments, with work beginning in 2022.

Its developer, Estateducation, previously told this newspaper that apartments would go on sale in January ahead of completion in June and that the office space and coffee shop were due to be handed over in April, with the project completed in February 2025.

Norwich Evening News: The former club still remains wrapped in scaffoldingThe former club still remains wrapped in scaffolding (Image: Newsquest)

However, the late 19th-century building - which was a cinema between the 1920s and late 90s - remains covered in scaffolding. 

Gary, from T&G Barber Shop across the road, said: "I don't see how anything can be opening soon.

"There seems to be very little work going on despite scaffolding being up for a year.

Norwich Evening News: An artist's impression of the building once completedAn artist's impression of the building once completed (Image: Archant)

"We look out at the building every day and progress seems very slow."

The building has been empty since Mercy closed in March 2018 after the company behind it went into liquidation.

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A staff member at the convenience store opposite the building said: "People seem to be working on it inside, but when it will be open, I have no idea." 

Norwich Evening News: Mercy closed in 2018, leaving the building emptyMercy closed in 2018, leaving the building empty (Image: Newsquest)

Estateducation has been approached by this publication for comment on two occasions, but no update has yet been given.

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Ben Price, councillor for the Thorpe Hamlet ward, remains hopeful, saying: "The reimagining of Prince of Wales Road is something that Green councillors have been pushing for several years now.

"The conversion of this former nightclub to housing and office space is another step in the right direction, helping to restore the road to its former glory and support Norwich's economy.

Norwich Evening News: Ben Price is hopeful the development will bring more businesses and residents to the communityBen Price is hopeful the development will bring more businesses and residents to the community (Image: Green Party)

"It is a great opportunity to bring in new businesses and residents to our community.

"I'm sure the developers will get the offer right and I look forward to welcoming new people into Thorpe Hamlet."