Briston homes bid raises development fears in Norfolk village

SMG Architects, on behalf of the applicant, Charlie Haller, submitted plans for the construction of two semi-detached bungalows, three detached houses and four two-storey homes with garages in Briston, near Holt.

The homes would be built on land that is currently unused near Orchard Close.

However, concerns have been raised as to whether Briston could cope with the population increase.

In the application, SMG Architects said: "The development is strategically designed to appeal to first-time buyers, young families, and elderly couples who are looking for comfortable and affordable housing options. 

"Overall, this development proposal is expected to provide a much-needed solution to the council's housing crisis. 

The application outlined where the houses would be built in Briston. (Image: SMG Architects)
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However, Briston Parish Council objected to the application. 

In an email submitted to North Norfolk District Council's planning portal, the parish council said it was concerned about whether the village's "infrastructure can cope" with more homes. 

The email was supported by a public comment that said Astley Primary School, in Briston, was already at capacity. 

A letter from the public said: "The increase in population the development will bring will also be a problem to the school, which is over subscribed with some children having to travel to a school away from the village. 

"The doctor's surgery at Melton Constable is also under pressure with long appointment waits of two weeks to see a doctor."

Furthermore, the site is also an archaeological interest. 

John Percival, a historic environment senior officer, requested that, should the application be approved, "mitigatory work be allowed to be carried out" before development. 

"There is potential for previously unidentified heritage assets with buried archaeological remains to be present within the current application site and that their significance would be affected by the proposed development," Mr Percival said. 

A determination deadline is expected for August 13.