A derelict pub which became infamous following the murder of its former landlady, whose body was found in a freezer in an outbuilding, is being converted into a convenience store.
The Compasses in Snettisham, near King's Lynn, has been closed for six years since the death of Becky Thorpe.
Miss Thorpe's partner, landlord Michael Tucker, is serving a minimum term of 22 years behind bars for murdering the 28-year-old on March 9, 2010.
He was convicted of shooting Miss Thorpe, a former Downham Market dental nurse, at the Lynn Road pub and hiding her body in a freezer outside.
Work has now started to convert the former pub into a Co-operative convenience store, which will be the first to open in the area.
Paresh Pancholi, the Co-op's regional acquisition manager, said: 'We are confident our new store will become a real asset to the community.
'It is expected the store will open in late summer when the investment of around £580,000 will provide a new format Co-op food store with a focus on fresh, healthy foods, meal ideas and essentials.
'The store will have an ATM, dedicated car parking and will create up to 20 new and part-time retail roles. As a community retailer, the Co-op will also appoint a community pioneer at the store who will work to support the retailer's commitment to playing its part and making a difference in the community.'
The news has been by welcomed by Ros Pugh, Snettisham parish council vice-chairman, who said: 'It's a very run-down site and I think the whole village is pleased to see work starting there. We are looking forward to having a lovely new shop in the village.'
The deal was brokered by property consultants, Bruton Knowles, whose associate, Stuart Hastings said: 'The retailer will be a much-welcomed addition for the residents and community of Snettisham. The development also means that a run-down site will be tidied up and several jobs will be created in the area.'
Change of use planning permission for the site was granted last year, despite concerns being raised about the impact of delivery lorries on a traffic bottleneck. A petition with 393 signatures was also submitted by the owner of Snettisham Village Stores, Siva Balamurugah, objecting to the proposal. Mr Balamurugah said today he was worried that trade at his business would be affected by the arrival of the new Co-op store.
•What shops/ restaurants/ businesses would you like to see come to Snettisham? Email david.bale2@archant.co.uk
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