Major expansion of village set for approval

A major expansion of a village including the construction of 3,850 homes and three schools is set to be approved.

The population of Rackheath, Norfolk, is likely to increase from just over 2,000 to more than 11,000 under developer Taylor Wimpey's plans.

Parish councils in and around the village, which is north of Norwich, have raised concerns about how the area's infrastructure will cope, as well as a lack of affordable homes.

The proposals, first put forward in 2022, are expected to be backed by Broadland District Council's planning committee next week.

A major expansion of Rackheath has been on the cards since 2009, when it was earmarked to become a so-called "eco-town".

While that did not come to fruition, the current proposal would be built on a former US airbase, now used as agricultural land, and effectively link the village with nearby Salhouse.

Along with the homes, the plans include two primary schools, a secondary school, a leisure centre and two shopping precincts.

Taylor Wimpey said the development will have "a unique character and identity, defined by its extensive green spaces" and provide a "wide mix of employment uses and community facilities".

According to a report for councillors, the population would increase by more than 8,800, with building work expected to take up to 30 years.

The Rackheath, Salhouse and nearby Wroxham parish councils have raised a number of issues with the plans, including increased traffic and concerns over how sewerage systems will cope.

Taylor Wimpey's offer of 12% of homes being affordable is also contentious.

It is well below the council's policy of 33% for such developments, but the firm has argued a higher rate would be unviable.

A report by council officers recommended the planning committee approves the plans, with the percentage of affordable homes to be reviewed over the years as building takes place.

They have also advised that an agreement with developers guarantees facilities including a leisure centre, 3G sport pitch and road connections.

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