380-home scheme approved despite bridge concerns

Nearly 400 homes have been approved on the edge of a town after a developer sought to reassure councillors that a promised railway bridge would be built.

Parish councillors have asked for confirmation that a new two-way railway bridge would be constructed as part of the Persimmon Homes development on land off Westfield Road in Dereham, Norfolk.

They say the crossing is essential to avoid traffic issues, but there has been little visible progress towards the project.

The developer said it remains committed to delivering the bridge and that discussions are ongoing.

The first 40 houses could be built by next year, with Persimmon Homes saying it will work "at pace" to deliver them.

Persimmon Homes already has outline planning permission for the development, but the scheme has now cleared a final hurdle after councillors approved the design and layout of the properties.

The decision means construction work can begin.

However, concerns were again raised at a Breckland Council meeting this week about whether the new railway bridge would be built. An existing crossing is due to be demolished and replaced with a larger two-way bridge.

Sian Carrel, chairperson of Whinburgh and Westfield Parish Council, said the two-way bridge was "essential" to prevent traffic from becoming gridlocked but currently but that there is "no evidence" to show it was being progressed.

Breckland Council officers said conditions attached to the planning permission would ensure the bridge is built.

Debbie Sherman, representing Persimmon Homes, said the company was in detailed discussions with Norfolk County Council about securing the land needed for the bridge and was "confident" it could be delivered.

Councillors ultimately approved the project, although there are still some matters that need to be resolved.

The development cannot proceed until flood experts and Norfolk County Council highways officers approve changes to the drainage plans and road layout.

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