Plans for 21 new homes approved in Winfarthing despite concerns about flooding

Plans for a new estate of 21 new homes on farmland in a small Norfolk village have been approved.

South Norfolk Council gave the green light for the development in Winfarthing, near Diss, at a meeting this week.

Despite “grave concerns” about flooding in the area and the impact of the scheme on the rural landscape, councillors were urged to consider the need to attract young families to the village.

It is hoped the new housing on land west of Hall Road will help boost the population and increase numbers at the local primary school.

The site currently forms part of a wider area of farmland at the northern end of Winfarthing, close to the village hall.

Developer Matt Legrys said the development would bring a new generation into the village and support local facilities such as the hall.

The 21-home scheme will include seven affordable properties, which councillors hope will encourage local children to stay in the village after moving out of their family homes.

Mr Legrys added: “We have an aging population in Winfarthing and we need to provide opportunities for young families

“This will support the long-term sustainability of services such as the primary school, which could close unless numbers increase.”

The village is currently home to less than 500 people and James Easter, district councillor for Winfarthing, said there were only around 26 children currently enrolled in the primary school, which is heavily undersubscribed.

He said at the meeting this week: “The village has a lot going for it, including a pub, a bus service and a hall.

“It will be a terrible shame if the school has to close. We need to attract younger people so these facilities can survive and prosper for years to come.”

The plans were unanimously approved by councillors.

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