Plans to turn a former church into a music venue have sparked opposition, with concerns the scheme could threaten the future of the building's "significant" 19th-century organ.
Proposals to transform the Grade I-listed former United Reformed Church in Princes Street, which closed in 2020, have been lodged with Norwich City Council.
Applicant Friars 923 Ltd, a company owned by Norfolk developer Andre Serruys, is seeking permission to turn the building into an "arts and dance facility, with capacity to host live music events, with the option to serve food and drink".
That has prompted objections from people living nearby, with concerns the venue, built by Norwich architect Edward Boardman in 1869, could become a nightclub.
The developer has a parallel application to make changes to the building, which includes removing the organ, built by Victorian organ builder Henry 'Father' Willis, in 1875.
He is widely regarded as the greatest of the 19th century organ builders. Instruments he made also graced the Royal Albert Hall, Crystal Palace and Alexandra Palace.
Planning documents lodged with Norwich City Council state the organ will be removed - but do not reveal what would then happen to it.
Dr Andrew Hayden, secretary of the Incorporated Society of Organ Builders - who lives in Freethorpe - has objected to the plans because of his concerns over the fate of the instrument.
He said: "It doesn't seem to me that the applicants fully appreciate the significance of this instrument. It is of at least regional significance.
"To lose it would be an example of cultural trashing. If it is to be removed, something of that significance needs to be offered a new home - you do not just bung it in a skip.
"We are talking about an instrument built by somebody right at the peak of his profession and at the top of his game.
"It's been a fixture in the arts and cultural life of Norwich and the surrounding area for getting on for 150 years."
Nobody from developers Friars 923 Ltd was available to comment.
A decision on the plans will be made by the city council in due course.
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