Planned 360-home development in Dereham split into phases

The ambitious proposals were put forward by Holkham Estates for land at Dumpling Green in Dereham.

The site had been identified by Breckland Council as "a sustainable location for the future growth" of the town.

A mixture of one, two, three, four and five-bed homes have been proposed, with 25pc allocated for affordable housing.

The project could be split into five different phases (Image: Holkham Estates/Breckland Council)

The first two phases of the development would see the properties on the southern side of the site built, with the second including two sales offices.

Phase three involves the construction of a 13.5 hectare public open space featuring a multi-use games area, BMX track, as well as homes near the west of the development.

The final two phases include the homes on the northern section of the site, although no timeline has been given for the estate's completion.

The project also includes a detailed access strategy, involving the creation of a new roundabout on Yaxham Road, upgraded pedestrian and cycle routes, and the relocation of bus stops on the road.

The location of the proposed development on Dumpling Green (Image: Google)

But the plans have drawn objections from locals regarding the impact of the development on the area.

One person said: "The proposed development will cause more traffic congestion on the Yaxham Road up to the Tesco roundabout and even further, which is causing chaos now, as the roads can’t cope.

"We will also have traffic coming from the already approved development of 260 houses over Westfield Bridge, and if the Holkham development is passed that will add a further 360 houses.

"If each property has on average two cars that will mean an additional 1240 vehicle concentrated in this already congested area".

Breckland Council will make a decision on the plans at a later date (Image: Newsquest)

Another person commented that the cumulative impact on local infrastructure has "not been adequately addressed".

They added: "GP surgeries serving Dereham are already under considerable strain, schools are facing growing capacity pressures, and there remain longstanding concerns regarding the ability of sewage and utility infrastructure to accommodate continued large-scale housing growth".

A design and access statement said the development seeks to "deliver a sustainable residential scheme of high quality."

The statement added: "The layout would be designed to reduce opportunities for crime and antisocial behaviour, create safe and secure environments, provide an appropriate level of amenity for buildings and create a clear distinction between private and public space".