Norwich: Squatters move into former Hellesdon care home

Neighbours living near the currently vacant Northgate House in Links Avenue, Hellesdon, have reported seeing a number of people living in the building. 

Northgate House Care Home was closed down in 2018 (Image: Newsquest)

It is understood the complaints, which were initially raised to Hellesdon Parish Council, have been passed onto enforcement officers at Broadland (BDC). 

"A small group of residents have flagged their concerns about people living at the site," said Shelagh Gurney, district councillor for the area. 

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"The building is in a poor state of repairs, but there is definitely a group inside.

"As to who they are, I'm not sure."

The site has stood empty since its last occupant, a failed nursing home, was ordered to close in 2018.

Since then, it has been the subject of a number of housing applications in recent years - with the last being a bid to convert the building into a block of flats.

Cllr Shelagh Gurney (Image: Norfolk County Council)

But despite this proposal being approved by the district council, no work has ever started on the development.

"After these concerns were raised by parishioners, I visited the site myself to inspect it," added Ms Gurney.

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"I then passed the information on to officers at Broadland District Council. 

"It is now a matter for them to deal with and I am sure they will do what is necessary."

A spokesman for Broadland District Council said: "We have engaged with the landlord of the property and the people living there and we will be taking appropriate action to ensure the best outcome for all parties and our community."