Plans for the major expansion of a trail-blazing farm have been approved, despite concerns that it could lead to dangerous traffic in the area. 

Wild Ken Hill has been given the green light to convert existing farm buildings to create a cafe, retail space and an indoor play building, by West Norfolk Council's planning committee. 

The developer will also build a 10-yurt glamping pitch, on the site between Heacham and Snettisham. 

Eastern Daily Press: Springwatch presenters Chris Packham and Michaela Strachan at Wild Ken Hill (Image: Chris Bishop)Springwatch presenters Chris Packham and Michaela Strachan at Wild Ken Hill (Image: Chris Bishop) (Image: Chris Bishop)

The committee previously heard plans for the site in April but pushed back its decision, to get more information from Norfolk County Council's highways department. 

The farm is best known as the home of the BBC's flagship nature programmes Winterwatch, Springwatch and Autumnwatch for three years. 

Henry Head, director of neighbouring business Norfolk Lavender, argued the development could lead to “significantly increased danger” from vehicles turning right at Lamsey Lane, which joins the busy A149.  

He called on the committee to defer the application until after Norfolk County Council – which has responsibility for highways – makes a decision on possible plans for improvements to the junction later this year. 

He added: “In the late 1960s there was a road safety poster with the strapline ‘keep death off the road’. I urge you to do that.” 

But Paul Rawlinson, from Heacham Parish Council, told the committee it had revised its previous objection to “neutral” because it was confident County Hall would make the improvements. 

Independent group councillor Simon Ring said the committee should not delay the application.

He said: “The work that Wild Ken Hill is doing is of national importance and we can't keep deferring the matter because we are waiting for Norfolk County Council to come up with the funds to build a long-awaited safety junction. The more pressure we can put on the county council the better.” 

The plans were approved unanimously.