The future of a landmark building dating back to 1589 remains uncertain after plans to turn it into offices was blocked by Norwich City Council. 

Garsett House, in Princes Street, known for its eye-catching pink colour was set to be revamped into a modern office under the plans. 

But the scheme hit a dead end after officials at City Hall rejected it saying the proposed work would "negatively impact" the significance of the building. 

The former merchant's house is a Grade II listed building and has been described as a "rare survival of a three-storied jettied building in Norwich".

Garsett House is a Grade II listed building which dates back to 1589Garsett House is a Grade II listed building which dates back to 1589 (Image: Google)

A conservation and design officer for Norwich City Council raised alarm at the plans, since "the building has been used as offices and it is believed that its layout and facilities could have been reused or altered more sympathetically if changes were considered necessary."

Proposals to revamp the ground and second-floor bathrooms to include a toilet, bath, wash basin and shower raised questions about the intended use of the space.

Planning officers stated that "the proposed changes to the interior of the listed building are clearly associated with the potential residential use of the asset, rather than aiming to improve the offer of the building as offices."

The plans would have seen the ground floor transformed into a new kitchen and staff room spaceThe plans would have seen the ground floor transformed into a new kitchen and staff room space (Image: Building Plans Ltd, via Norwich City Council)

Other plans included changing part of the ground floor into a spacious and modern staff room with a new kitchen, utility room and bathroom, and the first floor will have updated office spaces, as will the third floor, with an additional bathroom.

READ MORE: Historic city building could reopen as offices after years closed

In the decision letter issued to the applicant, Mr Trivedi, it was decided that the plans would "negatively impact" the significance of the building  and "do not provide significant public benefits to outweigh the potential harm at this stage."

Garsett House in July 1951Garsett House in July 1951 (Image: Newsquest)

Plans to transform the former merchant's house into a four-bedroom home are still being considered by the council.

The city landmark has been closed to the public since it was sold to the current owner in 2022.