Hunstanton to benefit from affordable housing and new library, says West Norfolk Council

Hunstanton looks set to benefit from an affordable housing development and a new library as part of West Norfolk Council plans.

The proposals are currently being considered by the council’s cabinet and its regeneration and development panel.

The plans would see between 21 and 24 affordable housing units built alongside a new library, in co-operation with Norfolk County Council.

The scheme would be built alongside the Hunstanton Bus Station, where the county council is already planning improvements to the transport interchange as part of its Bus Service Improvement Plan.

Cllr Alistair Beales, leader of the borough council, said: “The council has long held ambitions to develop affordable housing in the heart of Hunstanton. Now we have an opportunity to develop between 21 and 24 properties in a great location and build a new library for the town at the same time.

“Creating growth and prosperity across the whole borough is one of this council’s priorities, alongside supporting our communities. This proposal delivers both.”

Cllr Andrew Jamieson, deputy leader and cabinet member for finance at the county council, said: “We are excited to bring a new, purpose-built library to the town that will be delivered in tandem with the borough council’s housing plans.

“Norfolk County Council are already on track to create a new and improved travel hub in Hunstanton . This will improve the bus station, introduces bike storage, pedestrian crossing, better toilet facilities and a changing places toilet to the area.

“Work on the travel hub is due to start before the end of the year and completed in spring 2025.”

Cllr Jo Rust, the borough council cabinet member for people and communities, added: “I’m really glad to see more of the much needed affordable housing being proposed in the centre of Hunstanton, that, along with the new library, will be a real benefit to the town and wider area.

“The report suggests that a mix of one and two bed flats could be built near the new library. Residents will start seeing improvements in the area next year with the work being carried out by county with the travel hub.

“I look forward to seeing the detailed proposals at cabinet.”

The report will be presented to the regeneration and development panel next Tuesday (October 15) and cabinet next Thursday (October 17).

If agreed by cabinet, a detailed design for the homes and library will be required and will be subject to planning approval.

Homes England provided a £9.8million grant in 2018 as part of its Accelerated Construction Programme to be used across seven sites in West Norfolk, and this is the last site to benefit from the funding.