The redevelopment is among a number of vacant shops facing a transformation in the city.
It is loved by some and loathed by others.
Councillors back plans for the Wetherspoons in Wensum Street to stay open until 02:30.
The £625,000 project comes ahead of plans for a wider revamp of the building.
Officials say landlords are failing to keep properties maintained.
Police say they fear the management of a proposed convenience store will not comply with the rules.
The theatre director says the current building has become "tired".
The current site is "pretty terrible", a councillor says.
Bacteria was found at a vegan diner in bulgur wheat salad, hummus and on a spatula used for falafels.
