Plans to turn a derelict tennis court into a community space are finally set to move forward, two years after they were first mooted. 

The abandoned courts and a 1950s bandstand at North Lodge Park, Cromer, look set to be demolished to make way for a new multi-use space for pop-up markets and events. 

The plans have been recommended for approval ahead of going to the North Norfolk District Council’s (NNDC) planning committee next week. 

Eastern Daily Press: riends of North Lodge Park proposal from 2021 (Image: Friends of North Lodge Park)riends of North Lodge Park proposal from 2021 (Image: Friends of North Lodge Park) (Image: Friends of North Lodge Park)

The plans would also see two new public toilets installed, as well as a community shed, 'horticultural hub' and polytunnel. 

The application has been submitted by Cromer Town Council and the Friends of North Lodge Park, following almost two years of discussion about what to do with the land. 

Two members of the public wrote to the planning committee to object to the scheme. 

Their concerns included whether the plans would lead to increased traffic to the site, which they said has poor visibility for drivers, they also argued the design of the new toilets was “inappropriate” and the new structures, such as the polytunnel, were of poor quality. 

While NNDC’s planning officials acknowledged the plans may harm the appearance of the nearby Grade II listed North Lodge they said the benefits outweigh the negatives. 

A report to councillors said: “There are a number of public benefits associated with the proposal, including the revitalisation and improvements to a currently unused area of the park in order to facilitate new public toilets, and a number of flexible community uses to help ensure the future viability of the park.  

"As such, it is considered that the public benefits of the proposal would significantly outweigh the identified harm to heritage assets."

The application will be heard by the committee on Thursday.