Norwich City Council order VR escape room to remove decking

Norwich VR Escape Room, in Oak Street, received a letter from Norwich City Council saying its decking must be removed within three months as it "fails to enhance the appearance and character of the conservation area".

However, co-owner Stefan Markovic says they will not go down without a fight and is calling on the public for help.

Mr Markovic said the space, pictured, was a concrete wasteland before the decking was added (Image: Stefan Markovic)

He said: "We added the decking within the first year we were here, it was one of the first jobs we had.

"I think it's madness.

"I appreciate it's in a conservation area but if it used to be a concrete wasteland before we added it.

"There used to be lots of drug users and vagrants along the river before, but since we introduced the decking it's stopped.

"It also provides level footing now to the fire escape for us and the business next door - so there's a safety aspect as well.

"As far as we're aware we didn't have to worry about planning permission at the time because it's not a permanent structure and doesn’t take up more than 50pc of garden area.

Stefan Markovic, co-owner of Norwich VR Escape Room, said he thought the council's request is "madness" (Image: Stefan Markovic)

"I don't understand why the council seem to go after small businesses.

"It's like they don't want us to thrive, progress or make a living, despite their preaching about helping businesses in the city.

READ MORE: Homeware shop in city centre closes less than a year since opening

"We will fight to keep it. 

Norwich City Council told Mr Markovic the decking fails to enhance the appearance and character of the area (Image: Stefan Markovic)

"It's improved the appearance of the area and provides a nice area where customers can relax between games."

READ MORE: Historic city pub forced to close last year could reopen next month

Stefan is asking people to sign a petition - which has more than 600 signatures - to keep the decking.

He added: "It was only set up Saturday and already has received a lot of support.

"I think a lot of business owners feel the same way, having experienced similar issues with the council."

Norwich City Council did not respond to a request for comment on the matter.

Norwich VR Escape Room opened its Oak Street venue roughly two years ago (Image: Newsquest)