Row over fire risk of overflow car park reignites

A row has reignited over concerns the car park of a pub used by the Prince and Princess of Wales could pose a fire risk.

Last year, The Dabbling Duck in Great Massingham, Norfolk, was given permission to use a field for overflow parking, despite fears that hot car engines or cigarettes could spark a blaze.

But the pub is seeking approval again as an error was made when the plan was voted on by members of King's Lynn and West Norfolk Borough Council last year.

A report recommends the council's planning committee approves the proposal when it meets on Monday.

More than 60 objections were made last year when the award-winning pub, which has been visited by William and Catherine for lunch, sought permission to use a neighbouring field for parking.

The council's development committee gave the go-ahead on the condition that a hedgerow was planted along the boundary to serve as a firebreak.

A new report for councillors said the site's boundaries had not been shown accurately on the approved plans and therefore would need re-approval.

Fifteen people have objected this time, with the fire risk a concern again, as well as access and the level of traffic.

However, there has been backing for the pub as well.

The parish council has said it is in favour of the plans, while three people have written in support with one reasoning that offering parking helps the venue stay in business.

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