Fears over plan for homes on West Norfolk village mill site

Campaigners against two large housing developments proposed for a West Norfolk village are to hold a consultation event there on Saturday.

Developers are seeking outline permission for schemes which, if approved, could see up to 100 new homes built in the heart of Stoke Ferry.

But a group calling itself the Whole Works Repair Collective says the plans are a “slap in the face” for the village and more creative ideas are needed.

They are urging residents to have their say during an event at the village hall on Saturday, adding: “Finding common ground will create an alternative plan to the one on offer.

“We can create a space for negotiation and taking responsibility.”

Amber REI Limited say they want to build up to 70 properties on an old mill site on Lynn Road, with potentially another 30 planned for the Furlong Store site on Furlong Road. The existing buildings are set to be demolished.

Documents submitted as part of the application to West Norfolk Council say the developer is seeking to create “an attractive and high quality residential development which will respond positively to its surroundings and adds to the character of Stoke Ferry”.

They added: “At present the village is dominated by the large industrial structures associated with the mill.

“These are out-of-keeping with the character of the rest of the village and, due to its central location, form a prominent feature.”

But the collective argues that the proposals, if approved, would turn the village into little more than a “dormitory” settlement with limited opportunities for employment.

They also fear that existing open space linking the sites would be lost, despite assurances that “green infrastructure” such as play areas and landscaping would form part of any development.

And they believe ideas such as a village green and orchard, plus the provision of “work-live spaces” with homes above workshops and co-operative housing must be considered.

They added: “There are, we are sure, many wishes others would like to add and we encourage them.

“Planning objectives have been driven by unrealistic objectives of a failing economic arrangement, with no foresight towards real crises for we need to prepare. If positive change is going to be made it must be down to us.”

The consultation will take place at the village hall from 10.30am to 2pm on Saturday.