Anglia Square demolition underway in Norwich to pave way for new homes
Iconic 1960s structures are coming down.
Last updated 16th Feb 2026
Demolition efforts at Anglia Square in Norwich have escalated, as hydraulic crushing machines start deconstructing long-standing structures.
Specialist equipment valued at £1.5m is currently being utilized to tear down the multistorey car park at the 1960s shopping center.
This phase follows engineers clearing the interiors of buildings, preparing them for demolition.
Once the car park becomes rubble, work will proceed to dismantle the Hollywood Cinema building and Sovereign House, previously associated with Her Majesty’s Stationery Office.
The hydraulic crusher was seen today, on 16th February 2026, excavating elevator shafts from the multistorey car park in Magdalen Street.
The central square and shops have already been knocked down, along with the safe removal of the glass canopy and clock.
Norwich City Council leader, Mike Stonard, confirmed the demolition timeline is on schedule, expected to continue until the end of May.
Mr. Stonard commented: “It is brilliant to see the multistorey car park coming down, making another milestone on the road to building 1,100 affordable homes and regenerating the area for local people.”
Additionally, the first batch of affordable homes is poised to emerge on the surrounding western car park.
Ben Luckett, chair of Aviva Capital Partners, highlights the project’s prospects.
“We look for areas in need of regeneration and thought this was a great investment opportunity for Aviva and the city.”
Luckett mentioned Aviva’s extensive Norwich history as the motive behind seeking local regeneration projects that offer housing, rental, and leisure.
While demolition is progressing smoothly, the overarching £350m project spans several years and will be completed in phases.