A supermarket giant is set to become a staple of the city's high street after it was revealed it will sign a lease of more than a decade long.

Morrisons has previously confirmed it will be moving into the ground floor of the former Topshop unit in Haymarket.

The store closed after the fashion chain went bust in 2021.

A source close to the project said it was expected that Morrisons would sign a 15-year lease around February next year.

They added it was expected that the business would open an up-market food store in the empty 0.42 acre freehold shop.

Morrisons did not want to comment on when it would open the store.

As well as the food retail unit, plans have also been revealed by PPR Estates for 13 new apartments on the first floor of the site.

The property investor confirmed the acquisition of the building last October after the building was placed on the market in February 2021 for £3m.

Norwich Evening News:

Stefan Gurney, executive director of Norwich BID, said: "Morrisons is in a position to sign for the space.

"It is interesting because there is a lot of talk about it being a unique concept for Morrisons.

"We think it will be more deli-based and will sell fresh produce on the day.

"I think it will be an interesting approach.

"We can see there is a need for it after Tesco moved from Guildhall Hill to London Street and became a Tesco Express."

Jon Caplan, managing director of PPR, previously said: "We are actively talking to occupiers and local planners to ensure the site has a sustainable future that meets Norwich’s needs."

The change of use would see apartments built in what was previously used as office and storage space.

If approved by Norwich City Council, the residential aspect of the building would include seven two-person flats, three four-person flats, and three three-person flats.

As well as the former Topshop building, there are potential plans to convert the building above Next in Hay Hill.

Landlord Redeveco UK - which is based in London - is considering a redevelopment of the building which could see "Barcelona-style" accommodation built.