A former museum dedicated to Norfolk's most famous naval commander will be turned into housing.

Great Yarmouth Borough Council has approved plans to breathe new life into the former Nelson Museum building on South Quay in Great Yarmouth.

The proposal includes a gallery, cafe and shop open on the ground floor, and a four-bedroom apartment on the first and second floors.

The Grade II listed building is currently empty and most recently operated as the Yare Gallery which closed in 2023 before the property was put up for sale this year by the Great Yarmouth Preservation Trust.

The former Nelson Museum in Great Yarmouth.The former Nelson Museum in Great Yarmouth. (Image: Yare Gallery) READ MORE: Exhibits including Nelson's hair face uncertain future as museum emptied

A document submitted with the application stated that internal alterations would "fully regard" the nature of the building while the elements introduced and retained would enhance its architectural value.

The 17th century building has been home to the Norfolk Nelson Museum, the local police force and a draper, among other occupants.

The plans were unanimously approved by members of the borough council's development management committee.