A poll conducted by a newly-formed community group has found that an overwhelming majority of people would like to see a village landmark restored.

Eastern Daily Press: The former Ice House in Long StrattonThe former Ice House in Long Stratton (Image: Archant © 2007)

The Long Stratton Community Group asked visitors to the village's Co-Op store what they would like to happen to the site of the historic Ice House, which has been empty since the 19th century building collapsed on New Year's Day 2011.

Nearly 100pc of respondents said they would like the landmark, which became a familiar sight to motorists travelling to and from Norwich on the A140, to be restored.

However, researcher Brian Webb, who is a member of the community group, said it was unlikely the Ice House would be rebuilt and he would like to see a drop-in centre or pop-up shop on the site.

The results of the poll are set to be presented at the village's annual parish meeting on Monday (May 19).

The Ice House, which had been Grade II listed, collapsed due to the effects of wear and tear.

The building was part of a manor house demolished 50 years ago and ice would have been stored inside during the winter months and the exterior covered with six feet of earth to preserve it until needed in the summer.

Genealogist and South Norfolk councillor Terry Blowfield successfully traced the owner of the landmark, but JB Properties Ltd, the firm that used to own the site, was dissolved in 2000 and the land is now owned by the Crown.

The parish council had considered rebuilding the Ice House, but decided the cost was too much.

English Heritage decided to drop the Grade II status because only the base remained of the original building since the collapse and much of the historic context had been lost to 20th century homes and shops built around the site.

Would you like the Ice House to be rebuilt? Email dominic.bareham2@archant.co.uk