Major plans to transform a vacant factory site in south Lowestoft with a new retail and leisure development have been revealed.
A proposed £9.3m redevelopment scheme has been earmarked for the former Zephyr Cams building on one of the main approaches to town.
A 'successful' public consultation event was held this week – with proposals on display at an exhibition run by Metropolitan Properties (Investments) Limited, part of the Freshwater Group.
The proposed redevelopment of the former factory site in Tower Road could potentially create up to 200 jobs locally and about 150 to 200 construction jobs, with the demolition of the large two-storey factory building – which has been derelict for more than 12 years – transformed with seven retail and leisure units.
A spokesman said the consultation event was 'well attended' and feedback received was 'exceptionally positive.' Mark Newton, on behalf of Metropolitan Properties (Investments) Limited, added: 'We believe this site represents a great opportunity to enhance an important gateway site on one of the main roads into Lowestoft and in doing so create a sustainable redevelopment scheme which will provide additional retail stores to serve the needs of the local area.'
With the site extending to about 4.9 acres (two hectares), an application is likely to be submitted to Waveney District Council later this year seeking planning permission to 'transform this long derelict site.' The scheme has already attracted interest from national retailers, with Aldi and The Range having both committed to the site.
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