A planning application for a Lidl on the outskirts of Heacham was rejected on Monday morning.

Eastern Daily Press: Proposed plans of turning the Stainsby's garage in Heacham into a Lidl store. Picture: Ian BurtProposed plans of turning the Stainsby's garage in Heacham into a Lidl store. Picture: Ian Burt

Developers want to build a store on the former Stainsby garage site along the A149.

But at a West Norfolk Council planning meeting this morning, committee members decided to refuse the proposal amid concerns over traffic and its impact on the surrounding area of outstanding natural beauty.

Councillor Andrew Morrison said they had a 'huge amount of responsibility' not to create a 'blot on the landscape'.

He added he envisaged a 'corridor of clutter' along the A149 if they allowed this proposal and others in the future to go ahead.

Councillor Avril Wright said: 'I don't think we should accept something that on this piece of paper to me looks like an army barracks.'

Planning committee chairman Vivienne Spikings said the appearance of the current Lidl proposal was something members 'feel very strongly about' and it was a 'common thread' running through the meeting.

A total of 20 letters of objection were received outlining matters of concern including the increase in the volume of traffic on the A149, character of the building and the impact on tourism.

However, Hunstanton holiday home owner Catherine Saunders said at the meeting: 'What could possibly be the problem with Lidl coming here when we all need it so badly?'

She added the presence of the new store would take the pressure off supermarkets in Hunstanton.