A housing development in a rapidly growing city suburb is in doubt after people living nearby raised concerns over the plans.

Locals fear the scheme to build 50 homes in Hellesdon will lead to an increase in traffic. They also said there was a lack of infrastructure to support the new homes.

The development is earmarked for a disused plot of land at Heath Crescent, once the location of Jarrold Sports and Social Club which closed in 2016.

50 new homes could be built in a disused plot in Hellesdon50 new homes could be built in a disused plot in Hellesdon (Image: Hellesdon Parish Council)

People living near the site argued that fewer houses should be built when the plans were discussed at a Hellesdon Parish Council meeting.

They argued that the current proposals would result in 100 or more vehicles using the area's roads, which would create severe congestion in an area already experiencing high levels of traffic due to being near the airport.

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Concerns were also raised over the height of the development's 13 affordable houses which would overlook existing homes in Prince Andrew's Road and Prince Andrew's Close.

Locals also had fears a development of its size would put additional strain on the community. 

The land was previously occupied by the Jarrold Sports and Social ClubThe land was previously occupied by the Jarrold Sports and Social Club (Image: Google)

During the meeting, one person said: "People are already struggling to get GP appointments on a timely basis and growing increasingly frustrated at the inability to access public services.”

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Before moving ahead with a formal planning application, nearby schools and medical practices will need to be consulted, as well as Sport England which objected to the sale of the land to a private party in 2018. 

The topic has prompted heated debate in the communityThe topic has prompted heated debate in the community (Image: ARCHANT NORFOLK)

Instead of new homes the organisation, which was founded to promote physical activity,  wants the area turned into a leisure park "for the benefit of the people of Hellesdon".

However, it was agreed that if housing was approved, the developer, Cornerstone, should provide high-quality play equipment and green space which is accessible to all regardless of ability. 

The proposal will be discussed again in further detail at the next council meeting on September 10.