Plans to Transform Former Barclays Bank into Flats, Retail Unit

Plans are underway to convert the former Barclays Bank in Diss into five two-bedroom flats while retaining some ground floor space for retail, as proposed by Old Bucks Developments Ltd. The developers aim to enhance the town's housing supply and improve the retail appeal amidst challenging market conditions. In Three Oaks, a former school building is set to be transformed into around 18 apartments, with the sale aimed at addressing local housing shortages. Meanwhile, the Hillsdale Shopping Center in San Mateo is planning a significant redevelopment to create an urban neighborhood with mixed-use spaces, including residential units and retail, sparking mixed reactions from employees regarding the impact on community shopping options. The Hillsdale project is part of a broader trend of adapting traditional retail spaces to meet evolving consumer needs. As these developments progress, local councils are assessing their potential impact on community dynamics and the housing market.