Plans for 26 new affordable homes in Outwell given go-ahead despite fears over strain on local services
An affordable housing scheme in a rural village has been given the green light despite fears from locals that too many of the homes are being built in the area.
West Norfolk Council has approved the outline application for 26 properties in Outwell on land to the west of the existing community.
This is the first hurdle for the development to pass, with further details about the design and layout of the scheme yet to be approved.
But while it will help tackle a shortage in affordable homes, Outwell and Upwell parish councils objected to the proposal.
In a letter, the council queried why the village is “having to take the majority of affordable housing for the county” as there is already approval for 50 homes in nearby Isle Road and 15 have already been built in Wisbech Road.
Members also feared it would put too much strain on the local schools, roads and GP surgery.
But despite these concerns, the planning committee decided to approve the scheme and were in favour as they said it will help meet the borough-wide need to entry-level homes.