Plans to build 52 new homes on two fields at the edge of Long Stratton have been rejected by councillors despite being recommended for approval.

Eastern Daily Press: Plans by Orbit Homes would see homes built on fields adjacent to St Mary's Road and Lime Tree Avenue. Picture: GooglePlans by Orbit Homes would see homes built on fields adjacent to St Mary's Road and Lime Tree Avenue. Picture: Google (Image: Archant)

Orbit Homes wanted to construct a mix of two-storey detached, semi-detached and terraced homes on agricultural land off St Mary's Road on the south-western edge of the village.

Amongst the 52 new dwellings being proposed were 17 affordable houses, six of which would have been bungalows, whilst the development would also have included two large public open spaces.

The plans were discussed by South Norfolk Council's development management committee on Wednesday going against the officers' recommendation for approval.

The application was refused seven votes to one, with one abstention. Reasons for refusal were poor connectivity of open space, impact on open countryside and limited benefits.

Eastern Daily Press: Plans for the Long Stratton development include 52 homes including 17 affordable houses. Picture: Orbit HomesPlans for the Long Stratton development include 52 homes including 17 affordable houses. Picture: Orbit Homes (Image: Archant)

The plans had drawn opposition from nearby residents and parish councillors.

Long Stratton Parish Council had argued road access to the development was insufficient, the condition of the existing road is poor and the junction at Flowerpot Lane was yet to see the full impact of another housing development at Tharston Meadows.

Long Stratton is facing a huge expansion with plans for 1,875 homes and facilities including a new primary school on more than 150 hectares of land to the east and west of the A140, a development that unlock a long-awaited £20m bypass.

Objectors to the smaller St Mary's Road development argued it would add to pressures on local services as well as creating traffic problems.

Eastern Daily Press: Concerns have been raised about the impact on the junction of St Mary's Road and Flowerpot Lane. Picture: GoogleConcerns have been raised about the impact on the junction of St Mary's Road and Flowerpot Lane. Picture: Google (Image: Archant)

Amy Borley, of Lime Tree Avenue, said: 'The local infrastructure cannot possibly cope with these extra homes as both the schools and doctors are already stretched and unlike the proposed 1,800 home development, this application has shown me no evidence that the developer is willing to ease said infrastructure pressures.'

Richard Timbrell, who also lives in Lime Tree Avenue, said: 'There is already terrible traffic during peak times in the village and getting an appointment at the doctors is a joke. Further investment in to our roads and amenities is essential before any more houses should be built in Long Stratton.'

The highways department of Norfolk County Council had raised no objection to the plans.