Fresh plans for Anglia Square could be submitted by late spring as vision is approved by city council cabinet

It comes as developers Weston Homes and Columbia Threadneedle are drawing up a new scheme for the area to the north of the city, which would involve tearing down most of the existing buildings.

Norwich City Council's cabinet passed the policy guidance note for the area today, which will provide a framework for future development.

Bert Bremner, cabinet member for environment and sustainable development, said: 'This is another step forward to redeveloping the area.

'Magdalen Street is becoming more and more thriving so it is important to make sure that is incorporated into this scheme. There is quite an artistic community there and there is an opportunity for that in how the area could be developed.

'Possibly 3,000 or 4,000 people and families living in that space would create such a buzz, and if this comes off it would create a thriving new community. It would make a tremendous difference to the area.'

In an screening opinion request for an environmental impact assessment, the developers floated the concept of a 25-storey high tower block to house some of the more than 1,000 new flats proposed.

City council officers said in their note: 'There may be scope to provide a landmark building within the site, in order to reinforce the sense of place and make effective use of this highly sustainable urban site.

'A landmark building does not necessary need to be a landmark as a result of its height and particular attention must be paid to such proposals in view of the highly sensitive townscape of the St Augustine's Street area.'

Mr Bremner added he would not be 'totally against' a tower block but would prefer lower levels to be built.

'What they have done with Westlegate Tower is an absolute joy,' he said. 'With the great heights of the city council blocks people really do want to live in them because of the wonderful views.

'Let's see the planning application first.'