Plans to build 285 new homes in Dereham are expected to be granted planning approval on Monday, despite concerns over sewage, traffic and the impact on the character of the area.

District councillor Alison Webb, who has previously carried jars of sewage into a Breckland Council planning meeting to highlight the issues residents face, is due to speak in opposition to Orbit Homes' application.

The company wants to build the properties on land south of Greenfields Road, near Dereham's historic windmill.

Mrs Webb said: 'No more homes should be built in Dereham until they resolve the sewage problems the town is facing.

'There is raw sewage spilling on to pavements near schools and shops and extra homes will make things worse.'

Breckland Council case officer Matt Ellis has recommended approval.

His report to members of the planning committee states: 'The site is located in the settlement boundary of Dereham and is the subject of an existing outline planning permission for 220 dwellings, it is therefore sustainable in principle.'

He adds: 'Local services and facilities would be readily accessible and could expect to derive support from new residents.

'The environmental and social impacts of social impacts of the development have been considered and can be adequately mitigated.

'There is no substantive evidence to suggest that the proposal would have a significant adverse effect on local infrastructure.

'Potential impacts on local ecology have been scrutinised and found to be acceptable.

'The development would make a significant contribution towards the supply of housing, including affordable housing.'

Dereham Town Council has raised several concerns, including over the density and number of homes, impact on open space and the impact on traffic - an issue frequently cited as an area of serious concern in Dereham.

Mr Ellis's report shows Breckland Council has received 20 letters from members of the public over the application. They raise concerns about the number of homes, the development being out of character with the surroundings, sewage and the impact on schools capacity and healthcare provision and loss of views of Dereham Windmill.