A former rectory, built by a well-known north Norfolk architect, will be demolished and replaced with a controversial modern home - designed by his great nephew.
North Norfolk District Council's development committee voted unanimously in favour of Ross and Rachel Thrower's application to knock down a neglected 1924 six-bedroomed, two-storey detached house and build a two-storey, five-bedroomed replacement off Wiveton Road, Blakeney.
The modern design, which features timber and flint cladding and a COR-TEN steel roof, had provoked strong objections, including some 40 letters.
Many believed the demolition of the existing building, described as a late example of an Arts and Crafts Movement house by acclaimed Blakeney architect John Page, would be a great loss to the village.
Addressing today's (January 19) committee meeting, Iain Smedley, representing the objectors, said it was of historic and architectural interest and helped define the character of Blakeney.
But architect Anthony Hudson, who designed the planned replacement, said his great uncle John Page's building would look better in 'Hampstead Garden Suburb' and the new house was in keeping with the Blakeney tradition of continuity and change.
Councillor Nick Coppack said it was another example of innovative design within the district which 'we need to embrace.'
He added: 'I think it will add to Blakeney rather than take anything away.'
Councillors agreed to add an extra condition requiring the boundary hedge to be improved.
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