A vision for a new primary school to be built in a growing village has received a mixed response from residents.

Eastern Daily Press: Plans for a new school in Gayton recieved a mixed response from residents. Picture: Ian BurtPlans for a new school in Gayton recieved a mixed response from residents. Picture: Ian Burt

The latest proposal for the Gayton Church of England Primary School to be moved to land between the junction of Back Street and Winch Road could be given the go-ahead later this week.

A Norfolk County Council report states the new school will include 210 places for pupils, plus a nursery for 52 children.

The report states that the existing school in Lynn Road, which accommodates 152 pupils, is no longer fit for purpose.

The greenfield site, owned by the Gayton Estate, falls outside the development boundary identified for Gayton in an area of flood risk.

Eastern Daily Press: Gayton Primary School. Picture: Ian BurtGayton Primary School. Picture: Ian Burt

However officials have put forward recommendations for the plans to be approved at the next planning committee on Friday, January 5.

The report states: 'It is considered that the proposal would not be in accordance with the policies contained within the development plan and constitutes a departure.

'Significant weight is afforded to the need for an enhanced education provision which outweigh the harm caused by developing the site the subject of this application.'

The plans have received 44 objections from residents, with some highlighting concerns of traffic and flooding.

Eastern Daily Press: Plans for the new £4.5 million school in Gayton. Picture: Ian BurtPlans for the new £4.5 million school in Gayton. Picture: Ian Burt

One objector said: 'Back Street is a very narrow road that is not suitable for such an increase in traffic and the parking of cars of parents dropping children off at the school and nursery.

'The field is also prone to being waterlogged at times of heavy rain and the drains in East Winch Road also cannot cope now when there is a lot of water.'

But around the same number of residents supported the plans, with 43 people commenting on the need for a new school in the village.

One said: 'The school has outgrown its present building and with Gayton being a growing village a new school is a priority.

Eastern Daily Press: Plans for the new £4.5 million school in Gayton. Picture: Ian BurtPlans for the new £4.5 million school in Gayton. Picture: Ian Burt

'It will make a great school even greater and give so many more children the chance to experience a truly lovely and brilliant school.'

West Norfolk council has welcomed the plans but called for a review into the design of the building and for flood risk and traffic issues to be resolved.

Eastern Daily Press: Plans for new primary school near Gayton near King's Lynn. Early drawings were unveilled today.Plans for new primary school near Gayton near King's Lynn. Early drawings were unveilled today. (Image: Archant)