THE man behind proposals for a multi-million luxury hotel complex in the centre of Langham delayed by legal wrangles says he is confident construction work will start soon.

THE man behind proposals for a multi-million luxury hotel complex in the centre of Langham delayed by legal wrangles says he is confident construction work will start soon.

Ian Johnston was speaking after the scheme by his property development company Avada Country Homes was again given planning approval for a 30-bedroom hotel and 23 holiday cottage complex on the site of the old glassmaking factory.

Despite a threat of the planning consent being called in for judicial review after an 11th hour challenge by a holiday home owner, Mr Johnson said he hoped the project could be completed in 18 months.

He also believed he had the support of the majority of village residents. The complex would provide around 60

full and part-time jobs and bring back to life an extensive range of buildings falling into decay.

Mr Johnston accused Christopher Smith, who is challenging planning consent, of failing to accept the democratic process.

“I believe my application is one of the single most scrutinised applications in north Norfolk in recent years. Reports have been backwards and forwards and amended

to meet the officers' requirements, but Mr Smith seems to feel he is above the democratic process,” said

Mr Johnston.

Because of delays over a start on the scheme, which, Mr Johnston says would create a wonderful up-market venue for both visitors and local people, building workers employed by his company have been switched to other sites.

Parts of the extensive range of old barns date back to the 15th century.

A spokesman for Norwich-based solicitors Mills & Reeve, acting for Mr Smith, told the Times they had no comment to make on the matter.