Fenland Council has now completed the redevelopment of the former Cook's Butchers shop in Wisbech, which was demolished after its frontage collapsed in the 1980s.

The Gap, as it was known locally, before work began (Image: Fenland council)

It is now seeking tenants for a new ground-floor shop in the property, along with the seven one-bedroom flats it has built above it.

Chris Seaton, the council's portfolio holder for Wisbech High Street projects, said: "We're proud to have taken on this complex and challenging site to make what will be a long-lasting difference to the restoration of Wisbech High Street for generations to come."

Cooks Butchers pictured before its frontage collapsed in the 1980s (Image: Fenland council)

The council bought the site in 2010 and was awarded a £1.9m lottery grant to rebuild the shop at 24 High Street and regenerate other derelict sites nearby in 2017.

But while it awarded itself planning permission to redevelop the site in 2021, the work was held up by the need to install piling to support the building because of ground conditions and difficulties with installing the new structure in such a narrow site.

The opening ceremony after work on the site was completed (Image: Fenland council)

The Wisbech Society said the development would "help ensure the long term sustainability of the High Street".

Before the plans were approved, the council's conservation officer said the gap had "a detrimental impact on the character and appearance of this part of the Wisbech Conservation Area".

The gap on 2023 before work began on the site (Image: Google)

Steel girders installed to support the sides of adjacent buildings were clearly visible, while a hoarding only obscured the ground floor, with painted flowers doing their best to brighten up the scene.

Repairs to other High Street buildings have included at 13-17, where derelict first floors were brought back into use.

The council is now drawing up plans for the derelict 11-12 High Street.

© Eastern Daily Press