Plans for 40 homes in Harleston could strip cadets of part of ground

Harleston residents are objecting to plans to build 40 homes off Station Road, which could take land from a cadet group.

Kentford-based CODE Development Planners is seeking outline planning permission to build on the former builders yard, which has been out of use since 2014, having submitted plans to South Norfolk Council.

In its planning statement, the firm says: “This would provide much-needed homes in Harleston and integrate well with the existing residential function, character and scale of the immediate area. It is a highly sustainable location for this use and is only a short walk to shops, community facilities and schools.”

The plans have sparked concerns from townsfolk, with more than 40 people already posting comments against it.

Objections relate to the loss of parking space, loss of daylight, increased pressure on the local GP surgery, pressure on neighbouring roads and increased demand for schools.

People are also concerned about the potential impact on the Harleston Army Cadet Force, which stands to lose use of its parade ground to the north of its cadet hut.

Writing on the council’s planning portal, one neighbour said: “Reducing the outside area by placing a fence just outside the cadet hut will restrict the activities on offer and, thereby, make it a less attractive option for young people.

“This will inevitably lead to a reduced number of participants and, potentially, the winding up of the troop over time.”

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Barry Woods, chairman of Action for Harleston, said: “Without that land, the cadets can’t function and it would be a terrible loss for young people if it ceased.”