New life is to be breathed into a long-derelict Norwich eyesore, after councillors gave the go-ahead for Westlegate House to be redeveloped.

The 11-storey tower, in the heart of the city centre, has been empty for more than 15 years, but at a meeting today city councillors agreed it can tbe turned into flats.

The tower was bought by Norwich-based FW Properties and London company Soho Estates, last summer and today secured the green light they have been seeking.

Their plans will see two extra floors created at the top of the building, with each floor containing a single apartment.

At a planning meeting held at City Hall today, councillors unanimously agreed to grant planning permission for the various elements of the scheme.

The plans also include the building of new townhouses. with a new pedestrian walkway created between Timberhill and Westlegate.

The next door Grade II listed cottage, currently used by cafe Cassacio's and hair salon Casa Capelli, will also be restored and redeveloped.

The cafe and hair salon have been told they will have to move and are planning to relocate to St Giles Street.

• See tomorrow's Evening News and Eastern Daily Press for the full story.