The decision to demolish the building will also save the annual costs of £250,000 that the Council has had to pay for Business Rates, utilities, and maintenance, while waiting for the government to make the listing decision. Demolishing the property will also mean that the Council will avoid ongoing expenses during the planning phase, further maximising savings.

The estimated demolition cost, including fees and surveys, will be funded from the positive outcome of the 2024/25 budget, transferred into a dedicated South Norfolk House Demolition Reserve. The cost will be then be factored into the final sale price of the site, ensuring a best value for money outcome for South Norfolk’s taxpayers.