Major development plan proposed at Kit Kat site

A planning application has been lodged with West Norfolk Council for a proposed build for the site, comprising of a five-storey mixed use development of retail units on the ground floor and residential accommodation above.

Consisting of 16 residential units and commercial units, London-based property developer company David Hannah Homes are hoping “transform the area” with the proposed new development which will create new jobs and “provide much-needed housing.”

“This proposed scheme will have a positive impact on the look and feel of the area, making use of what was once an unsightly piece of land that was a blot on the wonderful seafront,” they continue.

Located on Seagate Road next to the Oasis leisure centre, the site is less than a minute walk from the promenade.

The design of the proposed build also attempts to relate to the old Kit Kat building by integrating Art Deco elements in its appearance and will incorporate aspects of style from the 1920s and 1930s.

Opened in 1933, the Kit Kat club burnt down in April 1998 and the remains were demolished in 2002, where the site has sat unused since.

The flats will be designed to maximise use of internal space and natural daylight. There would also be off-road parking available for residents with designated parking bays.

BMD Architects state in their design and access statement that the development “will provide a successful re-development of an empty brownfield site leading to a modern-day enhancement of this area” and “will have the potential to act as a catalyst for the wider regeneration proposals in this part of Hunstanton.”

However, concerns have been raised from a resident on Seagate Road, who notes that the development would block afternoon sunlight from their property, that there are safety issues regarding traffic on the road and that the height would create an “oppressive atmosphere” for surrounding properties.

Director of David Hannah Homes, Ola Popoola, states: “This development provides the perfect opportunity to make use of disused land. We can bring a superb standard of living to the area, with residential units that offer exceptional views and comfort. We are also creating commercial units that come with the potential to enhance employment in the town.”

This application follows another application on the site which was approved in 2011 which developers did not go ahead with.

The proposed design for the new development. Pictures: David Hannah Homes