Controversial plans to demolish a suburban bungalow and build a new care home for young adults have been approved. 

The bid to repurpose 331 Drayton High Road in Hellesdon was met with criticism from locals and councillors alike when first put forward last year. 

It was feared the site would be overdeveloped, out of character and a detriment to neighbours if endorsed, with a new building called "excessive" and "unsuitable".

The proposal drew criticism when first put forward more than a year agoThe proposal drew criticism when first put forward more than a year ago (Image: South Norfolk Council) Further complaints from the public said it would have "no benefit" to the local community, cause parking issues and lead to anti-social behaviour.

But councillor Eleanor Laming supported the proposal, commending the creation of new jobs and provision for young people in need. 

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It has since been given the green light, allowing work to commence. 

Alterations to the original plans were made to alleviate concerns over building size and highways concerns, with the design matching the neighbouring properties.  

Designs for the home have been amended to remain in keeping with the neighbourhoodDesigns for the home have been amended to remain in keeping with the neighbourhood (Image: South Norfolk Council) A noise management plan has also been provided to address any potential impact on nearby homes, limiting overall noise to 50 decibels in the daytime, 44 in the evening and 30 at night.

Fifty decibels is roughly equivalent to a noisy vacuum cleaner at a 10-metre distance.

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Cllr Laming was pleased with the decision, saying: "I am glad to see this empty property being brought back into use.

"The building will provide a home for seven young adults who need assisted living and there is a lack of this type of provision in the district.  

Councillor Eleanor Laming is pleased with the decision to approve the care homeCouncillor Eleanor Laming is pleased with the decision to approve the care home (Image: Newsquest) "New jobs will be created and a net gain in biodiversity must be also planned for, for example by installing bird or bat boxes, swift bricks and hedgehog gaps. 

"It is unfortunate that 18 trees will be lost, but these are of poor quality.

"I am also pleased to see a detailed landscaping scheme is being implemented and replacement trees will be planted."