Plans to open a new Poundland and DIY shop on the outskirts of Norwich have been delayed after bosses were asked to make clear how much of the shop would be in an "explosive interest" zone.

Poundland is hoping to open in 30pc of the former Ikea unit at the Sweet Briar Retail Park, with plans for an unnamed DIY shop to join it in the building.

But officials from Norwich City Council's health and safety team have demanded to know how much of the site is in a designated "explosive interest" zone, meaning it is close to a major hazard site or pipelines. Norwich Evening News: A map showing the explosive interest zone which runs through the unitA map showing the explosive interest zone which runs through the unit (Image: Norwich City Council)

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Council officials say they have no objection to the plans but have asked the applicant to let them know how much of the store's floorspace lays within the zone.

The applicant has since submitted a revised cover statement.

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Ikea's former unit has been empty since the Scandinavian furniture giant left in 2021 and it is thought part of the store could be a large charity shop.

The city council was hoping to approve plans by Monday, September 18, but it is now not known when a decision will be made.