Hopes of development at Market Place schoolhouse in Swaffham

The empty 18th-century schoolhouse in Swaffham's Market Place could soon see brighter days after acquiring a new owner. 

Concerned former students of the school have approached Breckland District Council and Swaffham Town Council about the future of the building, which stopped being used as a sixth form centre more than a decade ago.

Jennifer Chamberlin, who is leading the campaign for its restoration, said there was "too much apathy" about the redundant site, which she fears will be subject to vandalism. 

The building in 2009 (Image: Google Maps)She added: "The building is currently suffering from severe neglect and decay. We believe it is of utmost importance that immediate action is taken to address these issues and preserve the rich heritage that these buildings represent.

"It is disheartening to witness the tangible decay that is taking place. If left unattended, these buildings, which once stood as proud symbols of our town's history, will continue to deteriorate to the point of irreparable damage."

READ MORE: Rare opportunity to purchase converted Victorian railway station for £600,000

The former Hamond's Grammar School was home to an antique shop for several years (Image: Ian Burt)Plans have previously been approved to transform the site - the grounds of which already include boarding accommodation, a gymnasium and a classroom building - reconfigured into a development comprising 18 homes.

However, work on this project is yet to begin and the building remains vacant and boarded up in the town centre. 

Stewart Bell, mayor of the town, said there is now a "light at the end of the tunnel" with the site under new ownership - however, the buyer has not been named. 

"We want this sorted as it has become an eyesore in the centre of the town," he added.