Burnham Market 'locals-only' homes get the go-ahead

Councillors have approved the plans to build 12 new properties on a parcel of land in the village of Burnham Market.

The decision comes just weeks after villagers voted for curbs on holiday lets and lock-and-leaves in the area.

In a referendum, they ruled the neighbourhood plan should stipulate new properties be principal residences.

An aerial view of where the new homes will be built (Image: Google)

READ MORE: Landmark vote to curb second homes in village

Jack Armstrong of the Holkham Estate - which is behind the new scheme - said it would be a "high-quality development" that reflects the character of the area and that it had been tailored to meet local needs.

He added: "As an employer of local people in the area, Holkham Estate is keenly aware of the challenges faced by people finding affordable homes."

The scheme will create two affordable homes, two properties which will be rented out by Holkham Estate to locals, and eight small family dwellings which will be available on the open market.

Anyone wishing to buy one of the properties will have to prove it will be their principle residence under the new rules.

The properties will be built on land between Creake Road and Beacon Hill Road south of the allotments.

The planning application attracted 14 objections on grounds including the loss of hedgerows and fears it could result in 'overlooking' of existing homes.

One person also doubted local people will be able to afford them anyway.

As Burnham Market is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty there was some concern that it could have an impact on the countryside surroundings.

However, since the development is located between existing homes, it was deemed that it would do little to harm the conservation area.

The development was approved at a West Norfolk planning committee meeting on Monday.