Will plans for the Ocean Room hit the right note?

Developers are promising that demolishing and rebuilding a much-loved music venue will "breathe new life" into the resort. But are locals convinced?

People gathered at a consultation event in Gorleston, Norfolk, to find out more about the plans for the Ocean Room, which closed in 2024 and has fallen into disrepair.

Great Yarmouth Borough Council sold the derelict building to Bespoke Construction. The company wants to create holiday accommodation, a wellness centre and children's play area in its place.

Some accept it is time for the 87-year-old landmark to be bulldozed, but not everyone is pleased about the ambition.

Originally named the Floral Hall when it was built in 1939, the Ocean Room entertained generations in the town and in its heyday, it drew big acts like Pink Floyd and Blur.

It was run by a local family for decades until it closed its doors in 2024. Structural surveys later found it needed about £1m in repairs.

But after the council agreed to sell the property for £500,000, it has been earmarked for demolition.

The proposals for what would be called the Ocean Pavilion are in their early stages.

The four-storey building could house up to 37 rooms, a children's soft play area, a bar and restaurant - as well as a wellness centre and spa.

Robert Todd, project director for architect firm Feilden and Mawson, said: "The Ocean Pavilion is all about the next generation, to breathe new life into the town and seafront, hopefully providing something for everybody."

He acknowledged there was a lot of nostalgia around the venue but said the building was "crumbling beyond repair".

He believes people have come round to the idea the Ocean Room cannot be saved but he still has some convincing to persuade people to support the redevelopment.

Doreen Feuell, in her 90s, said she has lots of fond memories of visiting Floral Hall and its swimming pool.

She said: "We would go for a swim then there would be music in the afternoon played by Eddie Gates. People used to flock there. There was a sun deck so we could lie out and sunbathe, it was all very pleasant."

Feuell, who is part of a Gorleston conservation group, said the closure came as a shock and that she was "on the fence" about the project.

"It's an old building that needs a lot of attention," she said. "I've got my doubts about the plans, I think it's too big, too high."

Gorleston resident Theresa, 59, said it was a "real shame" the venue had closed.

"It was very successful though the decades, we had all the different types of music and some very iconic bands, it was full of laughter," she said.

She said she liked some aspects of the plans, like the facilities for children, but she questioned the need for more holiday accommodation, with other hotels nearby.

"I feel that there could be a better use of such an iconic building, also the building itself isn't really in-keeping with its surroundings," she said.

The Ocean Room is situated close to a parade of cafés, amusement arcades and bars.

One business that is supportive is the 125-year-old Gorleston Pavilion Theatre, which is located opposite the Ocean Room site.

Chief executive Alex Youngs said: "I think there's lots of strong opinions about the future of the Ocean Room and what should or shouldn't happen.

"But broadly speaking, I think the plans look good. Any investment in the area should be welcomed."

Youngs said he hoped the Ocean Pavilion would bring more footfall to the town, which would boost neighbouring businesses.

One local business owner, who did not wish to be named, worried it could harm these firms along the seafront.

He said: "Local businesses put their heart and soul into the area. Putting something like this in will potentially harm them. It is absurd."

The developers continue to consult with residents before putting in a planning application, with an ambition to open the venue by summer 2029.

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