A sweet shop that has been in a town for more than 50 years has closed as plans to redevelop the site get underway.

Thetford & Brandon Times: The Candy Shop has closed in Thetford for redevelopment. Picture: Marc BettsThe Candy Shop has closed in Thetford for redevelopment. Picture: Marc Betts (Image: Archant)

The Candy Shop, in Station Road, Thetford, has been a regular spot for youngsters on the way home from school to pick up treats since it opened in the 1950s.

Now, the shop has closed while the building is redeveloped, but the town will not be losing another retail plot.

The shop will be rebuilt with three flats located above the unit. Developer, Pearson Capital Projects, had hoped to create two retail units but upon speaking to stakeholders it was decided to keep one.

Two parking spots will be created for staff at the shop but none has been provided for the flats which has proved a controversial factor in the community.

Thetford & Brandon Times: The Candy Shop has closed in Thetford for redevelopment. Picture: Marc BettsThe Candy Shop has closed in Thetford for redevelopment. Picture: Marc Betts (Image: Archant)

Diane Seaford, of Painter Street, said: "To erect flats with no parking facilities is naive and short sighted.

"They may be close to the railway station and the bus interchange but it is a fact that the occupants will have at least one car each and need somewhere to park.

"It is naive to think that the new residents would not have cars and need somewhere to park them."

But Jo Pearson, of Pearson Capital Projects, said parking would not be an issue.

He said: "Tenants are able to use public transport and there are parking spaces but these are designated to the shop but that depends how the shop is staffed.

"The family who had the lease on the old shop have expressed interest in taking the new shop and two of the flats so they can live on site.

"This makes it much easier of course as the parking will theres to use."

Mr Pearson also added that the shop will continue to be called the Candy Shop.

Breckland Council planning officer Lisa O'Donovan said that not having parking spaces for flats this size is not uncommon and with the development being in the town centre buyers will be aware of this.

The new building will be two and a half storeys with a staggered roof which developers said will create a "natural fullstop" to the street.