West Norfolk Council officially approves funding for new Hunstanton homes

Councillors highlighted an opportunity to deliver “much-needed affordable housing” as they gave a new development their approval.

At West Norfolk Council’s full meeting on Thursday night, members voted to approve funding which will go towards the £4million project in Hunstanton.

The authority is planning to construct between 21 and 24 new homes in the town, with the bus station also being upgraded and a new library being built in conjunction with Norfolk County Council as part of the same scheme.

The council was asked to approve a cabinet recommendation for an initial cost estimate of £4million.

The council will provide £2.2million of this through affordable housing funding, with internal borrowing of a further £1.8million expected to be recouped through the eventual sale of the homes.

Getting the development over the line means the council will not have to repay £800,000 in Homes England cash.

Borough council leader Cllr Alistair Beales told the meeting the plans will result in a “significant upgrade” for Hunstanton residents.

“I think the whole thing is very good news, and I would ask councillors to support (it),” he said.

Cllr Brian Long, leader of the council’s Conservative group, said: “The fact that the current administration has taken a scheme that was a long while in gestation and have resurrected it, so as not to lose the Homes England money, is laudable.

“The delivery of the affordable housing, I don’t think of us would ever be against that - especially in an area such as Hunstanton which is affected by second homes and holiday homes and so on.”

Cllr Long also praised the addition of accessible toilets and changing spaces as part of the project, as did Cllr Rob Colwell.

“It will really be an opportunity to deliver much-needed affordable housing,” Cllr Colwell added.

Cllr Tom Ryves proposed an amendment to the plans so that local people would be given precedent when it comes to buying the new houses.

However, he was informed that in the council’s process for selecting occupants, their geographical location does not play a role.

Instead, their “need” for housing is the most important factor.

“It is always interesting when members of the ruling group looks to amend what their cabinet has done,” Cllr Long said.

“I don’t think I have heard that happen in this chamber in 20 odd years.

“While I agree with the sentiment… I really don’t feel that it is the right procedure.”

Cllr Francis Bone suggested selecting people based on their proximity to Hunstanton could “alienate” people looking for social housing, while Cllr Jo Rust said it would “disadvantage other residents”.

Cllr Beales agreed that while Cllr Ryves’ intentions were “laudable”, they would not be practical - particularly as there are currently around 1,500 people on the council’s waiting list for housing.

Councillors therefore voted against the amendment, and agreed to proceed with the project as it stands.