Controversial plans for an estate of up to 170 homes in Downham Market has been recommended for approval, despite objections from the town council and neighbouring residents.

Listed among the concerns raised included the lack of infrastructure in the town - such as school places and doctor's surgery - to support the proposed housing estate on land east and south of Denver Hill.

Councillors from West Norfolk Council's planning committee will make a decision on Monday when they to debate the outline planning application, submitted by The Grosvenor Partnership 3LP.

A report to members explains the application has already been amended to improve facilities for pedestrians and cyclists, as well as improve access to other transport routes including the A10 and A1122.

Initially, traces of an Iron Age settlement and a 'probable' Bronze Age burial mound had been identified but those remains were found not to be well-preserved, weakening the significance of the remains.

There were 37 letters of objection to the original application and 21 letters on the amended plans.

And while the site had previously been identified as a location for 140 new homes, the report also clarifies that more homes could be built there.

It reads: 'Whilst the proposed development is for 30 more dwellings than envisaged, it is clear that allocation numbers are minimum numbers.

'In this case, it is considered that the site can adequately accommodate 170 dwellings without material harm to the visual amenity of the locality, highway safety or neighbour amenity.'

Meanwhile, a public consultation will also take place on Monday to outline proposals for another 275 homes on land off Grimshoe Road. It will be held between 3pm and 8pm at the The Swan Youth Centre in Paradise Road.

Adam Bell, Development Director at Bennett Homes said: 'In addition to providing more information, our team will be there to engage with the public and to listen to positive suggestions, as well as answering any questions from those attending.'

• Do you have concerns about a planning application? Email louise.hepburn@archant.co.uk