The development could be complete by 2007

Wilson Bowden Developments has submitted a planning application to Norwich City Council to regenerate the St Anne's Wharf and King Street area of the city.

The company wants to build 425 homes, plus shops and cafes and the landing for a new pedestrian and cycle bridge to the Riverside leisure complex.

Councillor Brian Watkins welcomed the proposals, saying: "The area has been in need of investment for many years and this new proposal could be just what is needed."

Wealthy merchants

Although now run-down, the area once flourished due to trade based on the river.

It housed medieval merchants' halls and town houses of wealthy families, including the dukes of Norfolk.

The developers also undertake to refurbish two important Grade II listed buildings, to extend the Riverside Walk, and to create a home for the Inspire Science Centre.

If given planning permission, it is hoped the new bridge between Old Barge Yard and the Riverside complex would be complete by Autumn 2003.

Demolition work could start before the end of the year, with the whole development complete by early 2007.

The council is carrying out consultation on the plans, which are now on display in City Hall.