A large sports ground near a Norfolk town is set to vanish as planners have given the green light for a major housing development to go ahead.

North Norfolk District Council officials have recommended a 54-home scheme be approved to be built on the playing field off Station Road in North Walsham.

Housing association Paston Foundation is behind the project and it says all of the homes will be classed as affordable housing, meaning they will be offered for rent and sale at 20pc under the market value.

The proposed layout of the schemeThe proposed layout of the scheme (Image: Paston Foundation)

The development will deliver much-needed housing in the district, which is currently struggling with a big increase in the number of people being made homeless and living in temporary accommodation.

READ MORE: Price cap linked to local incomes proposed for affordable homes

However, there has been significant concern about the ramifications of the scheme.

This includes the effect it will have on the surrounding roads due to more traffic, while other concerns relate to local services being over capacity, such as schools and doctor surgeries.

READ MORE: Norfolk's bottleneck villages worries for the future as plans for 1,800 homes moves forwards

North Walsham is to grow significantly in the next 20 years, with 1,800 homes earmarked for developmentNorth Walsham is to grow significantly in the next 20 years, with 1,800 homes earmarked for development (Image: Newsquest)

Sports England, a public body that supports people getting into sports, has also objected as it is concerned that the housing development will result in the loss of a playing field.

 

The development also conflicts with its local plan as a result of this due to the loss of green public space.

READ MORE: Revamp plans approved for UK's oldest theatre - but where will the money come from?

READ MORE: Village home bid refused amid fears over 'garden grabbing'

As a compromise, it has been suggested that the developer could contribute cash to help grow existing facilities at the nearby North Walsham Football Club.

It is the second time the application has come before councillors.

In 2021 a decision was deferred to allow more time to assess the effect the scheme will have on highways, drainage and wildlife in the area. 

Councillors will vote next week on whether or not to approve the scheme at a development committee meeting on Thursday.