Concerns have been raised over plans to build 118 new houses and a home for the elderly with 60 places on an area of green land in Cromer.
The 6.35ha site earmarked for the controversial development is located between the Overstrand and Northrepps roads, opposite Royal Cromer Golf Club.
Now, Tim Adams, the leader of North Norfolk District Council (NNDC) and chair of Cromer Town Council’s planning committee, is concerned the development will destroy the habitats of various species of birds and other animals.
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“We will be potentially losing a green lung of Cromer,” Mr Adams said.
“The site is a former golf driving range, and it has been allowed to rewild itself over the years.
“It has taken on a life of its own, with bird and plant life.
“I’m concerned about the fragmentation of habitats, as there are a variety of species of birds.”
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From November 2023, all new developments in England must provide a biodiversity net gain of 10pc. This means applicants need to measure the current and proposed biodiversity values of sites.
Gladman Developments, based in Cheshire, has lodged the outline planning application for the development to NNDC.
The proposal is for a “high quality, attractive residential development set within a landscape of woodland, street trees and publicly accessible areas of open space, including a ‘greenway’.”
The application says: “The proposed development at Overstrand Road will help to address local housing need, including a need for affordable housing and specialist elderly care accommodation.
“The development provides an opportunity to reinforce Overstrand Road as a primary route into Cromer by creating an attractive and inviting gateway from the east of the town.”
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But Mr Adams also raised concerns about the lack of pedestrian access to the site because of the “poor network of pavements” around it.
This concern was shared by Emma Spagnola, Cromer’s mayor and district councillor for Suffield Park ward, earlier this year.
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