Concerns have been raised over proposals to enable companies to build on land without the need for planning permission.

Broadland District Council is seeking to introduce a Local Development Order (LDO) on a 19 hectare site to the west of Easton village.

It will allow certain types of businesses to build on the land without having to go through the normal planning process.

The LDO will form part of the Greater Norwich Food Enterprise Zone and only applies to companies linked to food production and agriculture.

On Tuesday, Broadland's cabinet will decide whether to move the draft order through to public consultation or cease any further work.

But Peter Milliken, chairman of Easton Parish Council, said: 'There has been a lot of concern raised by residents as to the impact such a large development would bring.

'They are worried about the church being cut off, what could be put on the site and the potential noise and smell.

'It would be nice to see employment brought to the area, but it must be measured against the impact [any development] might have.'

A draft report, which will be presented to cabinet members next week, states the LDO would speed up the planning process.

While businesses would not require planning permission, they would have to fit into certain criteria for the site.

The type of permitted developments include, processing of agricultural produce and food technology companies.

A spokesman for the council stressed that Tuesday's decision would only be to consult on the possibility of an LDO.

Should cabinet members agree to proceed with the six-week consultation, it is proposed to begin on October 28 through to December 9.