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The Norfolk town of Gorleston could be getting a huge new waterfront attraction. Its historic nightclub, which once-upon-a-time hosted bands like Pink Floyd and Blur, is now set to be turned into a more family-friendly venue.
After 85 years in business, hosting dinner dances, boxing events, club nights and concerts, Ocean Room went bust and shut its doors in March 2024. The art deco building has sat empty and crumbling ever since. But last month Great Yarmouth Borough Council finally sold the site to Ocean Pavilion, a subsidiary of Bespoke Construction Group, for £500,000.
The developer plans to transform the site into a year-round leisure hub with a soft play area, an indoor games space, a coffee shop and a wellness centre with a spa. The existing building could be demolished as part of the plans.
Many locals aren’t so sure about the proposals, though. After the plans were unveiled, hundreds commented their thoughts online. While most accepted the plans, other voiced concerns over the potential knocking down of the original building.
One Gorleston resident said: ‘It's a lovely old building and it's a shame to see it go, most of us have probably spent more than a few evenings at the club, but if what is to replace it goes ahead it sounds like a big boost to Gorleston.’
Another asked: ‘Considering that the reason so many people love Gorleston is because of its unspoilt Edwardian charm, wouldn't it completely do the entirety of its surroundings a disservice?’
A spokesperson for the developer told the BBC: ‘The Ocean Room holds a special place in the hearts of many and the team recognises the building's removal will be a source of genuine disappointment for the community. However, it should be noted that the council itself identified significant structural concerns with the building before the site was sold.’
A public consultation took place on October 20, inviting locals to view the proposals and have their say.
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