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Norwich Debenhams Set for Soft Play Transformation

Thursday, 12 November 2026 at 20:38

Urban explorers are being warned to avoid Norwich's former Debenhams as plans progress for a new five-level indoor adventure centre.

Urban explorers are being urged to stay away from Norwich's former Debenhams building as plans progress to transform the vacant department store into a major indoor adventure centre.

The prominent building on Rampant Horse Street is set to become a Fun Parx attraction, featuring five levels of entertainment and activities for children and families.

The plans include soft play areas, inflatable obstacle courses, slides and other attractions designed to appeal to visitors of different ages.

However, concerns have been raised about people entering the empty building without permission, with warnings that the property could contain serious hazards.

The former department store has been vacant since Debenhams closed in 2021 and has previously experienced problems with parts of its exterior.

Work on the redevelopment is expected to begin on 9 January 2027, after the busy Christmas shopping period.

The new attraction represents a significant change from earlier proposals to demolish much of the building and replace it with student accommodation.

Those plans were abandoned after developers concluded that the project was no longer financially viable.

Fun Parx instead intends to retain the existing structure and transform its interior into a family entertainment destination.

The company believes the project will bring new life to a prominent city centre building while attracting visitors and supporting surrounding businesses.

 

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