We are delighted to have recently secured planning approval for Dibden Court, a new affordable housing scheme in Norwich for Flagship Homes, which will now be delivered by Lovell Partnerships Ltd.
The scheme will provide 48 one and two-bedroom apartments for social rent, helping to deliver much-needed affordable homes for local people. The development will include secure parking, cycle parking, private balconies and terraces, and a central shared garden space for residents.
The site was formerly occupied by the Van Dal/Florida Shoe Factory, a locally listed building recognised for its association with Norwich’s historic shoe and boot-making industry. The building had, however, been vacant for a number of years and had become increasingly unsafe, with repeated incidents of unauthorised access, vandalism and fire raising significant concerns for local residents and emergency services.
The design has gone through several iterations in close dialogue with Norwich City Council’s planning and conservation officers. The approved scheme takes reference from the former 1930s factory, with gabled roof forms, brick detailing, strong vertical proportions and areas of contrasting darker brickwork echoing the rhythm and character of the original Crittall-style factory windows.
Alongside the heritage-led design approach, the scheme provides a significant improvement to the wider site, replacing a derelict and problematic building with high-quality affordable housing, landscaped communal space and a more sustainable residential environment. The apartments have been designed with sustainability in mind, including provision for photovoltaic panels to the flat roof areas.
The application was approved at committee, with councillors voting unanimously in favour.
A great result for a challenging site, and we look forward to seeing the scheme brought forward with Flagship Homes and Lovell Partnerships Ltd.
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