A derelict building in Upper Orwell Street which has been empty for decades could be set for demolition if new plans for the area are approved.

The East of England Co-op – owner of 12-20 Upper Orwell Street – has submitted a planning application to tear down the building which would pave the way for redevelopment.

The planning application states: “The building is vacant and has been for 30-plus years. The external and internal aspects of the building are in a poor state of repair.

“Timber on the external facade recently fell into the public highway. Demolition of the building is required to make the site safe.”

Scaffolding has recently been put up to help contain any more loose timber.

It is not yet clear what will replace the former retail space if plans to level the building go ahead, but it is understood the firm is keen to give the area a new lease of life.

An East of England Co-op spokeswoman said: “Our priority is to ensure the safety of people using the street, with the building currently in a poor state of repair.

“After investigation of the site, we have concluded that demolition is the safest and most economic option in advance of further proposals.”

The plans follow on from other regeneration projects in the area, including the ongoing revamp of St Michael’s Church into a community centre by JIMAS, the overhaul of number 10 by the Teapot Project pay-what-you-feel café and the recently-completed Major’s Corner improvements.

The Co-op application is currently in the consultation phase, and is set to go before planners next month.