'Grave concerns' have been raised at a lorry firm's planned expansion, amid fears it will mean people working throughout the night and potentially disturbing residents.

Valley Traction Services, which has operated in Norfolk for 25 years, plans to build a new warehouse, HGV workshop and industrial buildings at its site in Harling Road, Roudham, which it has owned since 2005 and used for external storage.

The expansion would also see 19 new car parking spaces and eight new cycle spaces created, as well as two disabled parking spaces.

It is also said that the move would create a 'modest number of employment opportunities' and has been designed with its quiet rural surroundings in mind.

But Roudham and Larling Parish Council raised concerns at road haulier's plans, which are due to be debated by Breckland Council's planning committee on Monday, February 12.

A letter from the council said: 'My council has grave concerns about the problems of ensuring compliance with the hours of operations stated in the application.'

It 'hopes that Breckland Council will actively monitor this, rather than simply relying on neighbours to do this job for it', adding: 'This is a particular concern because of the proposed HGV workshop, given that HGVs are usually on the road during the proposed hours of operation.

'Therefore the temptation to work on them throughout the night or at other prohibited hours is great.

'My council is also concerned of the impact of lighting on neighbours, and expects Breckland will apply conditions to ensure that this is not an issue, and monitor it accordingly to ensure that the conditions are complied with.'

However the letter also said: 'Despite these serious concerns, the council has no objection on the understanding the Breckland will ensure that they are adequately resolved.'

Breckland Council has recommended that the application be approved, subject to a number of conditions.

A report prepared ahead of the planning committee meeting said: 'The applicant has sought to not only improve the operation of the overall business, but also considered the rural context of the western boundary and proposes to maintain the soft edge to the industrial estate.

'The proposal would generate a modest number of employment opportunities for the surrounding locality, and is considered as in keeping within its surrounding industrial context.

'Consequently, the proposal is considered as contributing to protecting the surrounding natural and built environment and whilst supporting a strong vibrant economy.'