Woolgate Court apartments rejected after objections

Plans were lodged with Norwich City Council in January to convert the offices at 5 Woolgate Court in St Benedicts Street into 10 one-bedroom homes.

During its consultation phase, however, the proposal drew criticism for being "ill-thought-through" and "blatantly profit-driven".

According to council documents, Woolgate Court was rebuilt in 1991 for exclusive use as offices, with each tenant using it for that purpose. 

Woolgate Court currently houses only businesses (Image: Google Maps)

The owner of The Point UK Ltd, operating out of 4 Woolgate Court, said in their objection that the block is and always has been a unique business enclave that brings "vibrancy and diversity" to the commercial life and strength of the city.

They added that converting it into apartments would create tensions between businesses and residents while impacting the environment and the aesthetic, as well as creating an "Airbnb tsunami". 

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The owner and sole tenant of 6 Woolgate Court said they employ 30 people who would be forced to work elsewhere should the proposal for accommodation be approved, taking business away from the city. 

While the tenant of 5 Woolgate Court said: "We have a valid lease until 2028 and we have no plans to move.

Noise concerns to potential occupants were raised because of the building's proximity to a busy road (Image: Google Maps)

"We have not been engaged or consulted in this process."

The proposal has since been rejected, but not simply due to the public's objections.

Norwich City Council's environmental protection department said any change of use should not be considered because the building is very close to a live music venue and runs parallel to a road, creating an "adverse" effect on any potential occupants.

The strategic housing department also said not enough of the homes would meet its affordable housing policy.