Plans to build 23 new homes in a north Norfolk town which has become known as 'Airbnb-next-the-Sea' have been given the green light.

The new houses are set to be built in Wells, where more than 40pc of homes are second homes or holiday lets.

But the Holkham Estate, which is behind the development, has said 10 of the new homes will be affordable - with four of these being offered to local people at sub-market rent rates through affordable housing provider Homes for Wells. 

A further three properties will be market rented homes. 

They will be built on 1.73-acres of land south of Ashburton Close, adjoining the existing housing development at Home Piece Road. 

Eastern Daily Press: The site of the development in Wells south of Ashburton CloseThe site of the development in Wells south of Ashburton Close (Image: Holkham Estate)

There will be a mix of detached and semi-detached homes, as well as a two-storey apartment building.

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The majority of the properties will be two and three bedroom houses, along with a two bedroom bungalow, a four bedroom house and several one and two bedroom apartments.

Eastern Daily Press: An artist's impression of the new homesAn artist's impression of the new homes (Image: Holkham Estate)

Most will be accessed via Home Piece Road, with two of the homes being accessed via Market Lane.

The Holkham Estate will retain some properties which it will rent out privately, promising to target people already living and working in Wells.

Wendy Fredericks, deputy leader of North Norfolk District Council and portfolio holder for housing and peoples’ services, said: "We support this development as not only does it bring new affordable homes, including those for key workers through Homes For Wells, it is also brings new quality market rented homes to an area where they are in huge shortage due to the number of second and holiday homes."