City folk have voiced their frustration over the future of a prominent Norwich site which has become a target for littering and vandalism.

The former ice rink and sports centre in Drayton High Road, Hellesdon, has sat disused and empty since Planet Ice closed in June 2012. 

The former Sports Village site - which is known for its domed appearance - was sold to a mystery buyer in January 2023.

But since then, the future of the building has remained unclear and no planning application for the redevelopment of the building has yet been submitted to Broadland District Council.

Norwich Evening News: The site has stood empty for more than a decadeThe site has stood empty for more than a decade (Image: Denise Bradley)

Lacey Douglass, Conservative district councillor for Hellesdon South, said no details around the new ownership or what their intentions are for the site have been shared with local authorities. 

She added: "It's such a shame to have this building closed off to the public. 

"Not only is it unsightly, but it's also one of the first things you see when entering Hellesdon.

Norwich Evening News: Lacey Douglass, Broadland district councillor for HellesdonLacey Douglass, Broadland district councillor for Hellesdon (Image: Lacey Douglass)

"It's becoming increasingly dilapidated and the longer it is left like this, the worse it will get.

"It needs to be brought back into use."

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Ms Douglass said a number of complaints had also been received from members of the public about littering at the site. 

Norwich Evening News: Complaints have been received about littering in the areaComplaints have been received about littering in the area (Image: Denise Bradley)

"A lot of people have told the council about rubbish being dumped in the car park," she added.

"But unfortunately this is down to the landowner to sort out.

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"This is a site with a lot of potential. It could attract more people to Hellesdon and bring jobs to the local area.

"We want to see a use found for it."

Norwich Evening News: The former ice rink was sold to a mystery buyer in 2022The former ice rink was sold to a mystery buyer in 2022 (Image: Denise Bradley)

The space spans around 25,000sqft internally, with sand covering the ground where the ice once was and rink-side seating still in situ.

It is accessible via Drayton High Road and Boundary Road, alongside a Holiday Inn Express hotel, a David Lloyd sports centre and an Asda supermarket.