Norwich's former Ikea shop could soon be filled after a DIY store outlined plans to open in the vacant unit.

The shop in Norwich's Sweet Briar Retail Park has been empty since the Scandinavian furniture giant left in 2021, but now a company offering building and gardening equipment has applied for a change of use on the empty units two and three.

In the application submitted to Norwich City Council, the business says it wants to sell DIY items, gardening materials, car parts, furniture, carpets and "bulky" electrical goods.

READ MORE: Concern as vast retail units remain empty after job losses

About 30pc of the store would be taken on by Poundland, but the main occupier is currently unknown although it is thought this could be a large charity shop.

The applicant has also applied to extend the unit.

READ MORE: Cafe to serve alcohol and host seances - IF it can secure planning permission

Previously plans to open a mystery restaurant in the retail park were refused by city councillors as the chosen unit did not have planning permission for a food business.

It comes after councillors raised concerns over the number of empty units at the Sweet Briar estate, saying they were "no use to man or beast".

Those wishing to comment on plans have until August 27, with hopes a decision will be made by September 18.