Co-founder of Fun Parx, Matt Tofts, has assured naysayers plans for the former Debenhams in Norwich will benefit the high street and preserve the building's character.

Fun Parx took over the site after Orford House Developments’ proposal to demolish the building and create hundreds of student flats fell through.

The former Debenhams store will be turned into a Fun Parx family entertainment park (Image: Newsquest)

But the new scheme raised eyebrows, with critics questioning how appropriate plans for a play park are for the 1950s Orford Street site, given the city's need for housing.

Mr Tofts said “We are looking at central places to bolster and diversify the high street.

“I think it is not going to change the look of the building outside and we are not looking to change the landscape.

“We are offering something new that the city has not had........

© Eastern Daily Press