Businesses in a building which has been earmarked for demolition said they would just have to "move on" if the plans go forward.

It comes as developers are pushing forward with demolition plans for the former Corah factory building in Leicester.

Since it was closed in the 1990s, the buildings around the site have fallen into a state of disrepair, with developers Cityregen Leicester and Galliford Try Investments citing vandalism, arson, water damage, broken roofs and smashed windows among the reasons they felt made it unrealistic to reuse much of the existing buildings.

Raj Tukral, from the Mama Mia food outlet, told the BBC: "I just hope it doesn't happen, but if it does we'll just have to move on."

When the proposals were first announced in May 2022, they divided public opinion, the Local Democracy Reporting service (LDRS) said.

Reacting to the plans to demolish the building, Mr Tukral added: "We've been hearing it for the past few years.

He says he loves the site, adding his business has five members of staff across two locations.

The building is now home to dance studios, media professionals, food outlets, and even a church.

Charlie O'Neil, from First Legion gym, said: "We're doing so much for the community that you can't get rid of us. Whatever happens we'll turn it into a positive."

He said the gym was also running an anti-knife crime project, adding: "It's how its gonna affect the communities that's the question."

Bob Singh runs another gym and fight club at the site, called United Fitness.

He has only just moved into his unit and is currently setting up the equipment.

"I liked the apocalyptic look of the place," Mr Singh told the BBC.

"The owners have been transparent from the off and we're fully aware of the potential future of the place."

A spokesman for the developers previously told the LDRS the project team was "continuing to work closely" with the council to "realise" their plans for the site.

He added: "As with all major urban regenerations, there is a need to refine technical elements within the application before determination, with details on the proposals available to view on the council's planning portal.

"Subject to approval, our proposals will bring new life to this area of Leicester, creating a dynamic new community and destination which will act as a catalyst for further growth and regeneration."