It has commanded column inches and provoked passionate public debate - but letters will not be sent to inform households about a referendum on contentious plans build a car park at a much loved Cromer beauty spot.

Eastern Daily Press: North Lodge, Cromer Town Council.PHOTO: ANTONY KELLYNorth Lodge, Cromer Town Council.PHOTO: ANTONY KELLY (Image: © ARCHANT NORFOLK 2012)

Town councillors voted tonight not to write to residents ahead of the parish poll on the future of North Lodge Park.

The vote is being held on October 13 in response to North Norfolk District Council's plans to build a 48 space car park on the site of a former tennis court.

Mayor Tim Adams said that the cost of the referendum would rise from £1,756 without a mail shot to £4,500 if leaflets were sent to all 6,200 registered electors second class and £5,306 if delivered first class.

Councillors vote eight to five against posting letters at a special meeting. Cromer Town Council is funding the referendum, which is being administered by NNDC.

An overwhelming majority of residents voted to hold the poll at a parish meeting last month.

The result of the vote will not be binding on the district council.

The poll will take place between 4-9pm at Bullen Joinery office building in Central Road and Merchants Place on Church Street.