Controversial plans to build hundreds of homes on the outskirts of a Norfolk community have been given the go-ahead, despite local concerns the scheme will ‘kill’ the town.
The proposals to construct 461 properties on 67 acres of land on the edge of Harleston have been approved by South Norfolk Council (SNC).
The scheme also includes plans for open public spaces, allotments and four acres of land for community use.
Of the homes, 258 will be classed as 'affordable' while 107 will be ‘extra care’ apartments and bungalows, earmarked for people aged over 55.
In objections lodged with SNC's development committee, 25 local families argued the town’s roads, doctors, dentists and schools would not be able to cope with so many new residents.
The scheme, brought forward by the Saffron Housing Trust, would bring a significant population increase to the area, which had just 4,600 people in the 2011 census.
Steve Tricker, 65, of Mendham Lane - which is next to the development site - warned the project would “kill” the town, arguing it would create too many homes for the infrastructure available.
He said: “You can't get a dentist, the doctors are at breaking point. I know people who can't get their kids into the local school."
But Saffron has always maintained the scheme has been rigorously evaluated and that it will make financial contributions towards local infrastructure improvements.
At Wednesday’s committee meeting, SNC councillors backed the plans.
Conservative councillor Lisa Neal said: “It’s nice to see a mix like this. We know we need the extra care [apartments] for an ageing population but they still want to be independent. You’ve got the bungalows, the affordable housing, allotments."
Ms Neal said she was pleased to see the development feature such a large proportion of affordable homes, something the council normally has to require developers to provide.
Independent councillor Clayton Hudson supported her comments: “What’s weighing it for me is the delivery of affordable housing - 258 of the 461 – that's over 50pc.
“Who am I to turn that down at a time when affordable housing is absolutely needed?”
The scheme was unanimously approved.
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