Plans to demolish a former print works and build flats on the site have been turned down.
West Norfolk councillors were recommended to approve proposals to redevelop the former Witley Press works on Church Street in Hunstanton.
Developer Waterfield Dudley revised the plans after people living opposite the site said they feared it would block sunlight from entering their properties.
A report to Monday's planning meeting said: 'It is acknowledged in relation to the neighbours opposite the site, that they will notice the new buildings being significantly taller than what currently exists.
'However the scale of these new buildings are not considered to cause detrimental overshadowing, overlooking or overbearing issues given the 14m separation distance between the proposed buildings and these neighbours.'
Councillors deferred a decision pending a site visit. After viewing the site, the committee voted to turn down the plans.
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