Floating restaurant plan for King's Lynn quay approved

Plans to site a floating restaurant in the heart of Lynn have been approved by councillors, despite claims it would be a “disfigurement” of the area.

West Norfolk Council’s planning committee voted unanimously to back a change of use of land in Purfleet Quay to enable the scheme to proceed today.

Members were told the development was part of broader plans to revitalise the town’s riverfront, which were endorsed by the council last year.

But resident Richard Waite, who read a statement on behalf of his father Desmond, argued the plan would harm the setting of the nearby Custom House and other heritage assets and amounted to a “permanent disfigurement.”

He added: “The proposal is flawed and incomplete. The application does not enhance the setting.”

But committee member Avril Wright claimed the opposite would be the case, as long as the scheme was completed in “the most tasteful way.”

She said: “We do need to make this a most attractive river frontage.”

Chairman Vivienne Spikings argued the current problems facing the retail sector showed the importance of diversifying attractions.

She said: “If we do not come up with a new offer, we’re going to be left behind.”

Meanwhile, in late correspondence to the committee, the St Margaret and St Nicholas Ward Forum, called for a decision to be deferred until more was known about the type of business proposed and the length of its likely operating hours.

Secretary Sally Turff said: “It could be pole-dancing or a strip club – there is no way of knowing because of the paucity of detail before us.”

She added: “This is a residential area, not a working dock, and residents have a right to the ‘quiet enjoyment’ of their homes.

“Evening and weekend leisure activity has increased substantially in recent years, which has already much affected residents, and the borough council has plans to make the area the focus of the night-time economy with yet more events.”

But officials said they envisaged the business would operate until 10pm Mondays to Saturdays, with an earlier finish on Sundays and bank holidays.

Chris Crofts said such questions would be considered if and when a separate licensing application comes forward.