A prominent retail shop that has remained empty in a town centre for a couple of years looks set for a new lease of life.
New jobs could be created - provided plans get the go-ahead - as a former retail unit in Lowestoft town centre is earmarked for a new Adult Gaming Centre.
Change of use plans have been lodged to turn the former Burton menswear, and most recently a fashion store on Lowestoft town centre, into an Adult Gaming Centre (AGC).
The plans, which are currently "awaiting decision" with East Suffolk Council centre around "Change of use of the ground floor from a retail unit (Class E) to an Adult Gaming Centre (Sui Generis) and staff area with external alterations and associated works" at 78 - 80 London Road North, Lowestoft.
The retail shop - which was built in 1860 - was previously a Burton menswear store for a number of years, until it ceased trading in June 2020.
It then became the Limelite fashion store for several months, but having been empty for a couple of years, plans have now been submitted by Bradley Hall Chartered Surveyors and Estate Agents on behalf of the applicant Luxury Leisure.
A planning statement said: The property is currently vacant and no retail tenant has been secured for the premises.
"The proposed change of use to an AGC would not conflict with Local Plan policies and an AGC use at this location would contribute to the viability and vitality of Lowestoft Town Centre by increasing footfall.
"The proposal would also provide investment in jobs - circa 12 jobs in total being created."
With Luxury Leisure part of Novomatic UK Ltd, which operates low-stake Adult Gaming Centres (AGCs) under the Admiral brand, it is described as "the leading operator of amusement gaming within the UK".
With the "principal operation of the unit as an AGC" on the ground floor only, it "would provide gaming for adults aged over-18".
A final decision on the plans is likely to be made in the coming weeks by East Suffolk Council.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here