NNDC hopes for clear position on Fakenham building's future

North Norfolk District Council (NNDC) said it wanted the future of 9 Norwich Street, Fakenham, to be resolved before 2024 begins. 

The building was declared structurally unsound four years ago and it is now surrounded by scaffolding, a 'wrap' and wooden hoardings. 

Former mayor Gilly Foortse labelled the building a 'carbuncle'. 

NNDC is hoping to have a clear position on resolving the issue of the building at 9 Norwich Street in Fakenham (Image: Aaron McMillan)

Councillor Andrew Brown, the NNDC's portfolio holder for planning and enforcement, has said forcing the owners to sell up through a  compulsory purchase order could be an option.

In June, the idea of a compulsory purchase order was suggested as a way to resolve the deadlock around the building which has been unused since 2019.

A spokesman from the council said: “The council recognises the importance of this listed building and the challenges associated with the site.

"It is in regular dialogue with the owner with a view to resolving the issue. The council is aiming to have a clear position on the way forward by the end of 2023.”

Liz Vickers, North Norfolk district councillor for Lancaster South ward (Image: North Norfolk District Council)

Liz Vickers, councillor for Lancaster South ward in Fakenham on NNDC, said: “One of my first acts as a new councillor was to urge the council to take swift action on 9 Norwich Street.

“The building is an eyesore and, in my opinion, the scaffolding is a hazard to pedestrians.

“I am working closely with the new assistant director of planning who shares my determination to move this forward. I am pleased that the council aims to have a clear position on the future of 9 Norwich Street by the end of this year.”

“We need to do everything we can to regenerate Fakenham town centre and make it an even better place to shop, eat and visit.”

The building used to house the antique shop Upstairs Downstairs. A notice for urgent repairs was issued in 2019.