Battle over 31 new homes in Newton Flotman could soon end

If approved the scheme will see Norwich-based developer FW Properties build 31 new homes on a farmer's field in Newton Flotman.

But locals have been battling against the plans since they were first put forward in early 2022.

They raised a wide range of concerns including loss of privacy for some homes and whether the sewer system could cope with the added strain of the development.

When the proposal was first put forward, it was hoped work could start that summer and the one to four-bedroom home scheme be completed in 2023.

The homes would be built on a farmer's field just west of Alan Avenue (Image: Lucy Saxton)

The early plans received more than 30 objections and concerns.

David Gibbs, Newton Flotman Parish Council chairman, previously said: "We need housing and there is an opportunity for affordable housing.

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"However, there are concerns about additional traffic onto the A140."

He added nearby roads such as Flordon Road, which joins Alan Avenue off the A140, were "relatively narrow".

The development could block views of the field for homes already in the Avenue (Image: South Norfolk Council)

Lucy Saxton, who lived in Alan Avenue, said 31 extra houses were going to create chaos, adding: "A lot of our neighbours have views of the field. They are devastated."

Trevor Godbold, who also lived in the Avenue, said: "It's already very busy with vehicles and at times resembles an obstacle course.

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"Cars are parked on pavements causing problems for pedestrians and other motorists.

"Adding further houses means even more traffic."

An artist's impression of the proposed 31-home development off Alan Avenue in Newton Flotman (Image: FW Properties)

Council documents show the developers are continuing to find ways to have the bid approved, including spending nearly £500,000 on nutrient neutrality measures as well as addressing the concerns about sewage capacity and flood water run-off. 

The proposal will now go before South Norfolk Council's planning committee on July 31, more than two years after the planning application was first lodged.

The meeting will determine whether the development can go ahead or if further work is needed to bring it in line with the community's vision.