Eco homes plan 'not justified', West Norfolk Council officials claim

Contentious plans for a development of eco homes in West Norfolk are set to go back before councillors today.

Developers say they have addressed issues which led to a decision on the Whittington scheme being deferred in March.

But borough planning officials are still calling for the proposal for 10 Passivhaus properties on land off Jensons Way to be blocked at a committee meeting on Monday.

They say the development of land in open countryside is not justified and would breach policy.

A report published ahead of the committee session added: “The visual impact of the development in depth is considered likely to give rise to adverse urbanising impacts on the intrinsic character and beauty of the countryside.”

Debate on the application was put on hold so revised highway proposals submitted on behalf of the applicant, county councillor Tony White, could be considered.

Norfolk County Council Highways officials say they have no objections to the scheme in its current form.

And noise officers say residents of the homes would be protected from traffic noise from the A134.

Submissions made on Mr White’s behalf argue the development would help the effort to reach net zero carbon emissions, because of their design which dramatically reduces energy use.

But objectors claim there is no need for additional homes in the village.