Fresh plans to turn a derelict tennis court into a community space have been revealed. 

A new application to transform the former tennis court area of Cromer’s North Lodge Park has been submitted to North Norfolk District Council, after the previous application was withdrawn. 

The new plans are largely the same as the previous scheme, and will see the abandoned courts and a 1950s bandstand demolished to make way for a new multi-use space for pop-up markets and events.   

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

The main difference between the two applications is the type of materials being used on the buildings. 

Eastern Daily Press: Old tennis court in North Lodge Park set to become community space (Image: ALLY McGILVRAY)Old tennis court in North Lodge Park set to become community space (Image: ALLY McGILVRAY) (Image: ALLY McGILVRAY)

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

A previous planning scheme was presented to councillors at a meeting in June, with council officials recommending it be approved. 

But councillors voted to defer the application after they raised concerns about elements of the plans including the types of structures on the site. 

Tim Adams, a Cromer town and district councillor said: “There were a number of concerns raised with respect of the landscape, heritage impact and appropriateness of materials.” 

Mr Adams said one change was the space for growing plants would be “more substantial” than the previous plan, which included a polytunnel.  

“There are no changes in terms of purpose,” he said. 

“But it is significant enough in terms of planning to need a new application. 

“The tennis courts closed maybe around 40 years ago, the space has not had a proper public use for a long time. 

“We are really excited to see this happen.”