The demolition of a landmark city centre store could be in doubt after concerns were raised about potential flooding.

Plans to demolish the former Debenhams store in Orford Place have received an objection from a flood risk officer for Norfolk County Council.

They raised fears that proposals to knock down the 1950s building and rebuild it do not include how the new development will manage flood risks from all possible water sources.

An officer for the local flood authority team at Norfolk County Council has said they will "reconsider" its objection if the issues are adequately assessed.

Debenhams closed in Norwich in May 2021Debenhams closed in Norwich in May 2021 (Image: Sonya Duncan) According to the letter sent to Norwich City Council, one of their concerns is about "several instances of historical flooding recorded in the immediate vicinity of the site.

"While we note that it is proposed the drainage strategy may reduce the flood risk, we would require this to be evidenced or would expect further mitigation measures."

Consulting engineering company, Westlakes Environmental, has responded on behalf of Orford Place Developments LTD, the applicant.

They say the historical flooding mentioned by Norfolk County Council happened during "exceptionally heavy rainfall events in May, June and July" in 2014.

Plans show what the proposed building could look likePlans show what the proposed building could look like (Image: Lanpro) A spokesman for the company said: "In the city centre, flooding was recorded to one property on Orford Place.

READ MORE: Major objection brings fresh twist to Debenhams saga

"No mention was made in the report of any flooding having occurred in Orford House."

Westlakes Environmental has also released a 33-page document responding to the concerns of Norfolk County Council, which are now being reviewed.

Visualisation of the plans from the Rampant Horse Street perspectiveVisualisation of the plans from the Rampant Horse Street perspective (Image: Benchmark Architects via Norwich City Council) THE PLANS FOR DEBENHAMS

Plans for the former Debenhams building were first submitted to Norwich City Council in January 2024.

Under the plans, the 1950s building would be knocked down to below ground level and rebuilt as 405 student flats and several retail units.

Last month, the conservation team at City Hall said that a full demolition of the site was "unjustified" and instead suggested the building be retrofitted to "preserve the historic fabric, architecture and character, and minimise any detrimental environmental impact."

Planning firm Lanpro, spearheading the Debenhams rebuild on behalf of Orford House Developments Limited, said that this was an "unviable" option, as the developer would make a loss of millions of pounds on the project.

Other issues that have been raised include Norfolk County Council's historic environment department calling for an archaeological investigation at the site, and the heritage charity Twentieth Century Society calling for the "irreplaceable resource" to be protected.