The approval of a blueprint which sets out the future development of a Norfolk town has been delayed, amid fears about a lack of consultation and parking.

The Thetford Town Centre masterplan, which outlines potential shopping, leisure and housing developments, was criticised by councillors today for not taking the public's views into account and for cutting the number of parking spaces.

Officers at Breckland Council had urged councillors to approve the 83-page document, which would act as a guide on where future development takes place and suggests ways to boost trade in the town.

But it was met with opposition from councillors during a meeting of Breckland Council's cabinet this morning.

Labour leader Terry Jermy said community input in the masterplan had been 'severely lacking' and raised questions about why it sought to cut the number of parking spaces.

Councillor Philip Cowen said: 'There is an awful lot of good stuff in here but people have not been consulted.'

Describing Thetford as Norfolk's 'jewel which is constantly being stuffed', he said: 'We have a once in a lifetime opportunity to really revitalise this fundamentally important town. To talk about reducing the number of car parking spaces is facile.'

Councillor Robert Kybird said Thetford Town Council had not been properly consulted on the masterplan and claimed there were inaccuracies in the report from London property consultants Allies and Morrison. But executive member for assets and strategic development, Mark Kiddle-Morris warned against making changes to the plan, stating that it was a 'best guess' at the future of Thetford and offered one opinion.

Councillors backed a motion from council leader and cabinet chairman William Nunn to refer the masterplan back to council officers to carry out a wider consultation.

The masterplan will then return to Breckland Council this autumn.