The family behind a popular dessert café has blamed a rise in business rates for their upcoming closure on a town's high street.
Belly Boos will soon close its door in Gorleston as the business plans to relocate to a new Norfolk location.
It is run by Suzanne and Wayne Redmond and their two daughters Kallista and Shelby who say their decision to close follows an increase in business rates at their current premises.
Belly Boos has been located in the former HSBC bank on the High Street for the last nine years and Mr Redmond said despite the pandemic and problems brought on by the cost of living crisis, they are "still going strong".
But with an estimated tax increase of roughly £6,500, they feel it's time to take Belly Boos elsewhere.
Mr Redmond said: "Belly Boos has been doing well. We are really busy.
"But our main problem is that our business rates have increased by about 30pc.
"We understand it's due to the size of our premises but we moved here because we needed a bigger shop so we could keep up with demand.
"We could move back to a smaller shop in Gorleston, but it just wouldn't be worth it and it would just feel like we are taking steps backward.
"Times are hard for everyone and it's not exactly encouraging businesses to stay on the high street."
But a spokesperson from Great Yarmouth Borough Council said that the increase in business rates is "out of their control" and is set by the Valuation Office Agency.
They said: "The rateable value on the property at 156 High Street was previously £14,750 and was increased in April 2022 to £21,250.
"This was to take into account that the property was being used as a café.
"Its property description was previously listed as a bank therefore the council notified the valuation office of this change of use of the premises.
"It is a combination of the rateable value increase and the change in the rate relief that is the cause of the increase."
Belly Boos, which opened in Gorleston in 2013, is yet to announce its final opening date in the town.
The family will also soon reveal its new location elsewhere in Norfolk.
Mr Redmond added: "We would just like to thank everyone for their support throughout the time we have been on Gorleston High Street."
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