Plans for eight new self-build homes have been turned down despite support from villagers.

Heacham Land applied for outline permission to develop plots off School Road in the coastal village near Hunstanton.

It came after similar proposals for the site at Marea Farm were refused last year.

Now the latest bid has also been rejected by West Norfolk council on the grounds that the site lies outside of the development boundary for Heacham.

The council's refusal notice also stated there was not enough information regarding the development's impact on protected species. 

Eleven villagers supported the application on the council's planning portal.

One said: "The proposed houses would not negatively impact the area, on the contrary, they would enhance it.

"The farm has been abandoned for over 20 years, and the current buildings are in a dilapidated state and an eyesore, serving no purpose for the village or those seeking a home."

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Another added: "The proposal would provide the opportunity for the buyers of self-build units to acquire an affordable home, as well as giving them the satisfaction of having achieved something positive by building their own home."

A planning statement had earlier said self-build homes were cheaper to construct because they did not include a developer's profit margin, meaning they would be more affordable.

One objection was also received, which said: "The village does not have the infrastructure or services to accommodate yet more people.

"This is a rural village, not the suburban building site that Hunstanton has now become."

Heacham Parish Council also objected because the site is next to a coal yard which is "a significant local employer and service provider".

It added: "Allowing residential development nearby could threaten its viability due to potential restrictions arising from nuisance complaints."