People with opinions on the proposed revamp of Norwich's Anglia Square are being urged to attend a public meeting over the controversial scheme.

Eastern Daily Press: Paul Burall, from the Norwich Society. Picture: Bob HobbsPaul Burall, from the Norwich Society. Picture: Bob Hobbs (Image: Archant)

Civic watchdogs say the scheme is 'the most important planning application for the city in many years' and want to ensure the public has its say.

Housebuilder Weston Homes, along with landowner Columbia Threadneedle, have lodged plans with Norwich City Council for the ambitious revamp.

It would include up to 1,250 new homes, a 25-storey tower, dozens of shops, a 200-bed hotel, 600-space car park and pedestrianised areas.

The project would see a minimum of 120 affordable homes, plus a £2.5m new base for Surrey Chapel, which would be demolished.

Almost 100 people and organisations have so far submitted comments to City Hall about the application, with the majority of them objecting to the proposal, with the height of the tower proving particularly contentious.

The Norwich Society and the Cathedral Magdalen and St Augustine's Neighbourhood Forum will host a meeting tomorrow to gather views from the public about the planning application.

Paul Burall, from the Norwich Society, said: 'This is the most important planning application for the city in many years and we want as many people as possible to make their views known.

'Everyone wants to see Anglia Square redeveloped, not just to remove an eyesore but also to boost the local economy.

'But we question whether what is being proposed is the right solution or whether it will be seen in future years as a disaster for the city.'

The developers have said the proposals are the result of two years of extensive discussion with the city council and that the regeneration would transform the area and enhance the local community.

It will ultimately fall to members of City Hall's planning committee to decide whether to grant permission.

The meeting will be held at Epic Studios in Magdalen Street, next to Anglia Square, from 5.30pm tomorrow (Wednesday).

People can submit their support or opposition for the scheme by visiting https://planning.norwich.gov.uk/online-applications and typing 18/00330/F into the search box.