Petition launched to block new flats in Thorpe Marriott

Part of The Square car park in Thorpe Marriott could be transformed into two flats and four garages according to a recent planning application lodged with Broadland District Council.

The applicant, TM Property Management, described the area - which serves the nearby Tesco Express, The Otter pub and community centre among others - as "underutilized".

The car park serves customers at the shops, which include a Tesco Express and two takeaways (Image: Google)

But the application has been received critically by some, who say the car park serves a necessary public function and replacing much of it with flats would cause a "significant" impact on trade.

An online petition has since been set up by Stephanie George in opposition, which reads: "I am deeply concerned about this project which poses a significant threat to our local community.

READ MORE: Plans to turn busy car park near pub and Tesco into flats spark concerns

"Not only will these flats be an eyesore, they will also infringe upon people's privacy by overlooking private properties."

According to the application, the car park is privately owned, with the surrounding buildings having no "formal right" to or ownership of the space.

Nearly the whole car park has been earmarked for the build (Image: DFAL, via Broadland District Council)

More than 250 have signed the petition (Image: change.org)

However, Ms George added: "There are also concerns about potential damage to nearby houses during construction.

"Moreover, the construction process itself is likely to disrupt traffic and roads with up to 30pc more congestion, exacerbating daily commutes and adding unnecessary stress on residents."

READ MORE: Worries raised as popular pub applies for garden upgrades

The petition has so far garnered more than 250 signatures, with a goal of 500. 

The buildings will be near The Otter pub if plans are approved (Image: Google)An architect's drawing for plans at The Square car park in Thorpe Marriott (Image: DFAL, via Broadland District Council)

Drayton Parish Council has said it "strongly objects" and that this position was "unanimously" agreed by its councillors.

Ms George says she also has the support of district councillor Adrian Crotch.

TM Property Management has been approached for comment concerning the impact on surrounding buildings and roads. Mr Crotch has also been contacted.