A new self storage park will help people whose smaller, modern homes do not have enough space for their belongings.

West Norfolk council has given 1st Self Storage planning permission for the two-acre facility off Edward Benefer Way, near the St Nicholas Retail Park.

Planning papers say it will consist of 48 full size container units, 16 half size units, 16 quarter size units and two utility storage units.

In a planning statement, the firm's agents say as well as businesses and self-employed tradespeople, the units will also be available for private use.

"There is a recognised growth in the domestic market for secure self storage which it is projected will continue to grow," it says.

"The reasons for this are the growth in the population in King's Lynn including the additional houses that are being built and are due to be built in the coming years.

"There is a trend for modern houses to be built with less storage capability and for people to accumulate more household items which require storage in locations closely accessible to their homes."

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The statement says the business, which was formerly a fuel storage depot, will employ three full-time staff when it is fully operational.

Plans for 95 homes were previously agreed for the site but the development did not go ahead.

"It is recognised that the proposed storage use is an effective re-use of a brownfield site and will retain the commercial use of the land," the statement concludes. "The proposal represents a sustainable use of the site."

King's Lynn Civic Society objected. It described the development as "a retrograde step in the potential revitalisation of North Lynn".

Police said CCTV and alarms should be installed to protect the premises.