What is happening to the Sultan on Colman Road in Norwich?

But years later, the Sultan on Colman Road still has black sheets covering its windows. 

The Sultan on Colman Road in May 2024 with sheets covering its windows (Image: Google Maps) Four years ago, Cengiz Seker applied to convert the former Boots site into a restaurant and takeaway business. 

Boots pharmacy closed in 2020 after the company decided against renewing its lease.

Mr Seker, who then submitted an application to change the premises' use from retail to mixed, wanted to open a restaurant that could host up to 80 diners.

The former Boots in Colman Road, Norwich, which has been converted into the Sultan after approval from the planning committee (Image: Archant) READ MORE: Brave four-year-old Daisy reveals her struggle with arthritis diagnosis

His business would also create 11 jobs - six full-time and five part-time.

The Sultan would be a place on the parade which offered people the opportunity to dine in, with Greggs, East Chinese, Domino's and Papa John's offering only takeaways.

To get the site fit for purpose, additional work was needed to put in seating and toilets, a commercial kitchen, extraction and ventilation systems and storage, which were part of the application.

The restaurant's windows are covered (Image: Newsquest) READ MORE: High school that came under fire for toilet policies submits plans for new block

The shopfront would also need a new façade, which planning proposal said would be "in keeping with those of the other units on the parade".

In the application, it was said: "The proposal is for a business that would meaningfully contribute to Norwich's economy and importantly to the local economy.

"This is underscored by the fact that the unit in question is presently vacant and bringing it back into use will return jobs to the local area."

Norwich City Council then approved the plans a few months after they received the application, giving Mr Ceker the all-clear to get started on his new venture.

However, it seems that for more than a year, the Sultan has had its windows covered, giving the impression customers are yet to be welcomed in.  

Mr Ceker has been approached for comment.