A multi-million pound scheme to bring an historic Dereham landmark back into use and build more than 100 homes in the town is expected to progress to the next stage.

We have reported how Great Ryburgh-based Crisp Maltings is has submitted plans for 127 homes on land behind the disused maltings, off Norwich Road. It is part of a multi-million pound scheme that would see the redundant historic maltings also brought back to life.

Crisp Maltings wants to begin maltings operations again from the Dereham site and view it as 'a jewel in Norfolk's food and drink supply chain crown.'

Breckland Council's planning committee is due to discuss proposals for the 127 homes and plans to repair and refurbish the maltings on Tuesday.

Council case officer Chris Hobson has recommended approval.

In a report to councillors, he states: 'Any identified harm would not significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits of the scheme...there are no material considerations of sufficient weight to justify refusing planning permission.'

Mr Hobson states the benefits to include: provision of a significant number of dwellings and contribution to the council's housing land supply, job creation, increased expenditure to the local economy from new households, increased council tax receipts, making good use of a brown field site and ensuring a grade II listed building, on English Heritage's 'at risk' register, may be brought back into use.

Concerns have been raised by members of the public and Dereham Town Council.

They include the potential impact on traffic in Dereham, increased risk of flooding and the 'overbearing' impact the development could have on cottages and bungalows in the area.

The maltings, behind the Mid Norfolk Railway station in Dereham, closed in 2000.

It was formerly known as the P&G Smith Maltings and dates back to the 1800s.

The resurgence in independent brewing and craft beer leading to more demand for a variety of malts was cited as the reason behind the company's decision to look at Dereham again.

What do you think of the plans for the maltings? Let us know your views by e mailing adam.lazzari@archant.co.uk