Anger is mounting over plans to convert barns into a large new home in Nelson's Norfolk village.

A developer has applied to covert the redundant structures at Burnham Thorpe, near Burnham Market.

They say the scheme, which includes terraces and a swimming pool, is the best way to preserve the buildings.One of the barns which could be convertedOne of the barns which could be converted (Image: Chris Bishop)

The barns stand next to the church where Nelson was baptised, in the village where he was bornThe barns stand next to the church where Nelson was baptised, in the village where he was born (Image: Chris Bishop) But locals are up in arms over plans for the site, which is next to the church where Nelson was baptised after he was born in 1758 and his father was the rector.

They include Lady Anne Glenconner, former lady-in-waiting to the late Princess Margaret, who described the village as "a very special place of national importance".

Parish councillors held a special meeting to discuss the proposals before adding their objections to West Norfolk's planning portal.

The church where Nelson was baptised, at Burnham ThorpeThe church where Nelson was baptised, at Burnham Thorpe (Image: Chris Bishop) Lady Anne Glenconner, who is among the objectorsLady Anne Glenconner, who is among the objectors (Image: Denise Bradley) "The church has nationally important associations with Lord Nelson," they say.

"Many people make pilgrimages to the church because of its association with him as well as those who have relatives in the churchyard and those who are mentioned on the war memorial.

"It is an area of quiet prayer and contemplation and the use of the adjacent land for potentially noisy and disturbing activities is not appropriate.

"This area is one of the few parts of the country where it is often entirely quiet, and this special quality, together with its importance to the use of the church, is of great value."

Nelson was born in Burnham ThorpeNelson was born in Burnham Thorpe (Image: Archive) A view of the barns which could be convertedA view of the barns which could be converted (Image: Chris Bishop)

So far, West Norfolk Council has received more than 50 objections, along with four supporting comments.

"This is why people from the US come to the UK to see history," one says. "Not new structures."

Another objector adds: "Seems to risk desecration of the village's historical importance and affront its most renowned son, Lord Nelson, by putting the appearance of the village asunder."

A decision is expected later this year or in early 2025.