Plans for 47 Wells homes bid faced with strong objection

Holkham Estate submitted the plans in late July to build 47 homes on the western edge of Wells-next-the-Sea. 

It had undertaken a 15-month consultation and subsequently reduced the number of homes originally planned for the project following feedback from the public. 

Holkham had initially intended to build 51 homes.

People near the area have come forward expressing their anger over the plans, saying that it is a "thoroughly disappointing bit of generic commercial suburban development". 

The land near Mills Farm Holidays has been earmarked for the development of 47 homes. (Image: Google Maps)
A few said in the North Norfolk District planning portal they were concerned about the increased traffic for the area. 

One said: "Every event held by the Estate's use of this road and entrance to the park has resulted in a significant increase in traffic.

"This affects the emergency services access to and from the town and surrounding areas.

"During my time spent in the fire service, the traffic has not only blocked the farm's existing entrance, but has also physically stopped us from responding to life-saving situations on time."

A design illustration of the proposed development for 47 homes in Wells-next-the-Sea. (Image: Feilden+Mawson LLP/Holkham)
Others were concerned the size of the project was an over-development of the area.

One person said: "Why do 47 more houses need to be built when there are 41 houses already empty in Wells? That is without the other 30 that are already being built.

"This is greed not just on the council's part but also on Holkham's."
 

A bird's-eye view of the proposed development. (Image: Feilden+Mawon LLP/Holkham)
Many agreed the 40-odd homes would in effect ruin the town's natural environment, which lies in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. 

Another said: "It would devastate this area of outstanding natural beauty and its associated wildlife.

James Bracey, general manager of planning and development at Holkham Estate said: "The planning application follows 15 months of consultation and careful consideration.

"Wells-next-the-Sea is a working harbour town with a genuine housing shortage for people living and working in the local area.

"The proposed development helps address this shortage.

"In total, 45pc of the scheme is affordable housing, and a further 10pc will be retained by Holkham to rent to people living and working within the local area.

"We are optimistic that NNDC’s decision will follow the lead set by the town council that, on balance, it merits their support as an important step to provide housing in the town."