A new development could see 200 homes built in Acle prompting concerns it could turn the village into a "big commuter town".

Crocus Homes is targeting a 20-hectare parcel of land between Leffins Lane and Jolly's Lane in Acle for the new houses.

The site is next to the developer's Oaks Meadow scheme, due to be completed early next year - made up of 45 homes.

The latest proposals are for 200 more houses, as well as an independent living centre for over-55s, a country park, community building and car parks.

The houses would range from one to four-bedrooms and the independent living community would boast 90 apartments.

Ten hectares of open space on the site could include a new community building, an orchard and usable open space for general recreation, dog walking, education and habitat recreation purposes.

A public display of the plans, which are currently in draft form, was held on November 28 in the village, while an online consultation runs until December 9. 

Eastern Daily Press: A house at Crocus Homes' Oak Meadows development in Acle.A house at Crocus Homes' Oak Meadows development in Acle. (Image: Four Agency)

Matt Davidson, managing director of Crocus, said the developers believe in the proposed development because of its "sustainable location".

However, after news of the plans was posted on a local Facebook page, All About Acle, some neighbours responded with concern.

One woman said: "Totally ridiculous. What are people going to do for schools doctors etc? They can't cope now, neither can the water mains or sewage pipes."

Another commented: "I think it's far too many. We have already had loads.

"We've still got only one full supermarket, can never get in the doctors. It's going to ruin Acle and make it just a big commuter town."

Mr Davidson said: “We absolutely appreciate and understand that local residents may have concerns with the proposals, and we will continue to work alongside the public and stakeholders to address those points as best we can.

"A great deal of the feedback we have received so far has been answered as Crocus Homes has undertaken considerable due diligence on the site itself, the local infrastructure (including schools and doctors) and assessing that the site meets or exceeds all requirements for new housing to be considered."

People can comment on the plans here: www.lanproservices.co.uk/leffins-lane#item0