A building in Norfolk's gingerbread town' that has served the community for decades could get a new lease of life as a pharmacy.

Plans have been lodged to change the use of Downham Market Social Club in Paradise Road into a healthcare facility.

The former ex-servicemen's club, which was built in the 1930s, has been closed for three years after it ceased operating.

The Willows Pharmacy site located in Downham Market health centre could move round the corner if the plans are approvedThe Willows Pharmacy site located in Downham Market health centre could move round the corner if the plans are approved (Image: Google)

The existing Willows Pharmacy and health care facility will seek to relocate to the premises, if plans are approved by West Norfolk Council.

A survey undertaken by the firm seeking the opinion of locals has generated a number of positive responses.

Several people have said they support the application and that it will "boost the healthcare provision" in the town.

The Downham Market clock tower - the town's well-known landmarkThe Downham Market clock tower - the town's well-known landmark (Image: Chris Bishop)

It will be a larger site that is centrally located and it is hoped it will help relieve pressures on local GP surgeries.

Better parking will also be available for visitors and electric vehicle charging points could also be installed.

The application will now be considered and a decision will be made at a later date.

 

GINGERBREAD TOWN

Downham Market is the most westerly town in Norfolk, sitting close to the border with Cambridgeshire in the low-lying Fens.

It is also one of the oldest towns in the county, having come to prominence in the Anglo-Saxon era. 

Downham Market's train station, which is built of carrstoneDownham Market's train station, which is built of carrstone (Image: Newsquest)

it is known as the 'gingerbread town' due to the colour of a stone that was used to construct its characteristic buildings.

Carrstone is a sedimentary sandstone formed in the Cretaceous period varying in colour from light to dark rusty ginger depending on the amount of iron oxide present.