West Norfolk's population set to jump

West Norfolk's population is set to rise by more than 7,000 over the current decade, according to new figures.

Estimates from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) suggest 159,000 people will live in the borough by 2026, compared to 151,800 two years ago.

The total is also expected to rise by a similar amount again by 2041.

And, although the rate of growth is slower than the regional average at around 4.7 per cent, the ONS thinks the proportion of people living here aged 65 or over will rise from just over a quarter now to nearly a third by 2036.

The findings come barely a week after council officials admitted the anticipated development of several thousand new homes here over the coming years would put more pressure on infrastructure.

That prompted calls for radical action on the area's transport needs, including a new gateway into Lynn.

But charity leaders say the projection shows the need for urgent action to help the health and social care sector.

Earlier this year, care authorities such as Norfolk County Council were allowed to impose an additional council tax increase to fund social care.

But Caroline Abrahams, of Age UK, said: "The fact there are growing numbers of older people is a cause for real celebration, but these figures underline, once again, the need to ensure that our health and social care system is fit for the future."

The ONS estimates are published every two years.