In the mid 19th century the landmark Ice House in Great Yarmouth was at the forefront of an industrial revolution that would see the town's fortunes soar.
It was built at the same time as Southtown railway station, meaning freshly caught fish could be packed and transported to London's Billingsgate fish market, reaching a whole new consumer base.
Ice was cut from the broads and imported from Norway to be stored in the structure, once one of a pair and the only one of its kind left in the UK.
With a capacity for over 42,500 cubic metres, packed ice could stay frozen for months ensuring a steady supply of fresh herring to the capital and beyond.
However, advances in modern technologies saw it overtaken and overlooked, serving for a time as a grain store for JH Bunn who also renovated it in 1980.
Now it could have a new role driving a second revolution - a cultural one.
Plans have been submitted by arts charity Seachange Arts to repurpose the building as a hub for all things circus including training, and fabricating apparatus.
Documents submitted to Great Yarmouth Borough Council describe the Grade II listed heritage asset as "uncelebrated" and with an uncertain future.
The papers say the "big, dark, brick box" is perfect for the kinds of activities the charity wants to carry out.
The changes will transform it into a "unique and delightful" space that could lift the whole area, it is claimed.
Modern requirements to do with safety, access, and toilet facilities mean some changes and an extension are needed, and to make the most of its position overlooking the River Yare and town hall there will be an outdoor balcony.
A bar is also being installed, to help with revenue.
The papers go as far to say that Yarmouth could not have progressed without the Ice House, now a rare survival, so significant was its role.
They conclude: "It has taken a forward thinking charitable arts organisation in the shape of Seachange to recognise the building for its worth and to
propose an innovative model that would make appropriate use of the large uninterrupted volume, and bring life to the currently dreary west bank.
"The proposal demonstrates a way to conserve the Ice House and to provide a contemporary addition to enable the building to function as a community arts space."
The bid is part of a wider regeneration plan for Yarmouth under a £60m Town Deal bid.
To view the plans click the link here. Comments are due by January 21.
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