Proposals to build 16 flats on part of the site of the former sixth form in Swaffham were finally approved today after a series of measures to address road safety concerns were added.

Breckland councillors had twice deferred a decision on the plans for the northern part of the Market Place site because of fears that access from Lynn Road was dangerous, despite highways officers from Norfolk County Council not raising objections.

The planning committee had previously heard strong concerns from Swaffham Town Council that the additional traffic generated by the residential development would make the current situation worse.

Three new options designed to reduce traffic speed and increase driver perception were considered by the committee.

They were a build out, 20mph being painted on the road approaching the Market Place and the installation signs that also reminded drivers of the speed limit.

Swaffham councillor Shirley Matthews said she would prefer access to the development to be from the rear at Whitsands Road.

But she said: 'I do sort of agree with it because I feel there's nothing else they can do, and they have gone to the nth degree unless common sense could prevail and you could look at the back entrance.'

The committee unanimously backed the planning application.