Pedestrian shop-lined walkways lead onto Anglia Square which was originally open to the elements but is now partially covered by a steel and glass structure – added in the late 20th century.

During the 19th century, a Crape Manufactory – a factory which produced a fabric often worn when mourning, was built where Anglia Square now stands.

One of the oldest was the Kings Arms public house on Botolph Street, which on its gable end in large iron characters were the letters "I" and "C" and the date "1646", now preserved in one of the Norwich museums.

The cleared areas near where The Shuttles pub stood were never built on, and remain an empty wasteland today.

The single storey shops include discount supermarkets and a wide range of privately owned and high street stores.

[12] In January 2011 new plans for the square were lodged and the developers hope to gain approval before the end of April 2011.

[15] The current owners and their partner Weston Homes announced in November 2016, they have been holding talks with chief officers at Norwich City Hall.

Plans submitted include the demolition of Anglia Square, the former stationery office and Gildengate House.

These include 1200 homes, of which 120 will be affordable, a major supermarket, hotel, green squares and central courtyards, along with a 20-storey tower.