Old Bell's bid for heat pumps and new windows get approval

The Old Bell in the hamlet Barney, near Fakenham, has been a family home since the 1970s after it ceased operating as pub. 

The applicants, Stuart Anderson and Beccy Low, submitted a proposal which would see a number of alternations and additions done to the property. 

These included an extension, three rear dormers, installation of solar panels and an air source heat pump, converting an outbuilding and adding new windows.

However, part of the plans were met with objections from neighbours of the property.

A photo from Norfolkpubs.co.uk of the Old Bell in 1938 (Image: Thomas Faire Architects Ltd) Those living nearby were concerned the heat pump would be located too close to their boundary and cause a noise nuisance. 

One neighbour at Pony Stable Cottage said: "Due to noise associated with ASHPs we want this relocated elsewhere within the applicants' site where it will be less noticeable.

"Clearly it has been sited at the furthest point away from their house for a reason."

Another neighbour at Lily Cottage agreed. 

They said the location of the heat pumps would prevent them from enjoying "the peace" of their garden. 

The outbuilding at the property, which will also be renovated. (Image: Thomas Faire Architects Ltd) They suggested the heat pump be located to the front of the Old Bell property away from neighbouring rear gardens and closer to the proposed new kitchen for "heat and energy efficiency benefits". 

They also objected to the additional windows, which they believed would encroach on their privacy.

However North Norfolk District Council gave the plans the thumbs up after the applicants relocated the heat pump closer to the house.

The council said the plans were acceptable but also added the applicants should use obscured glaze for the windows on the first two floor windows on the north elevation to "prevent undue loss of privacy to neighbouring properties".