The once-grand Beales department store in Lowestoft, a seaside town that once thrived on retail, is now up for grabs. This prominent landmark, which closed its doors almost seven years ago, has been left to decay, leaving a 'major site' ripe for redevelopment. But here's where it gets controversial: while the store has been empty for years, a new plan to transform it into a residential development with 45 flats and five retail units has been approved. Now, more than a year-and-a-half after the green light was given, the property is being offered for sale with an asking price of £895,000. But is this the end of the story for the former Beales? Or is there more to this tale than meets the eye? The store's history is a long and winding one, with former shops on the substantial stretch that lastly housed Beales including chemists, opticians, a cycle company, Lowestoft Water and Gas, and the Victoria Arcade. Many of these buildings were destroyed during the Second World War, leading to the entire block being rebuilt in the 1960s. The store would eventually be occupied by the Co-op, offering furnishings, men's and womenswear, footwear, hardware, and much more, before becoming Westgate and then Beales. So, what's next for this iconic building? Will it be transformed into a residential development, or is there another plan on the horizon? And what do you think? Is this the end of an era for Lowestoft's retail scene, or a new beginning? We want to hear your thoughts! Comment below and let us know what you think.
