Plans for a garage and annexe have been withdrawn over fears for trees and wildlife.

A developer named in planning papers as B Tansley applied for planning permission for the new building at Ashwicken, near King's Lynn.

Proposals included a triple garage with a one-bed annexe with kitchenette and sitting room above.

But neighbours and West Norfolk council's tree officer objected to the structure at Glosthorpe House, on East Winch Road.

Dr James McGarrick and Jean Combeer-McGarrick, who live next door, said trees would need to be felled to make way for what they called an "excessive over-development".

They add: "These trees are of considerable amenity value, as we are aware of daily wild bird activity in our garden and in the area of the trees, including blue tits, goldfinches, wrens, sparrows, jays, woodpeckers, partridge and pheasants. 

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"We are also aware of considerable bat activity in the evenings. As you will be aware, bats are a protected species and the felling of these trees would result in a loss of habitat for all these creatures."

The couple also said the new building would block light to their property and expressed fears its foundations would encroach on their boundary. 

Brian Ogden, the council's arboricultural officer, also objected.

He said the application should have been supported by a tree survey and arboricultural statement.

"Without any information on the trees, an accurate assessment of the impact on them can't be made," he added.

"I'd suggest this application be withdrawn and proposals reconsidered only after the designer understands fully the constraints posed by trees."

West Norfolk council's planning portal says the application has now been withdrawn.

Glosthorpe House, which sold for £532,000 in July, 2023, was described as sited on "a generous plot" with double garage.