Villagers have overwhelmingly thrown their weight behind the first neighbourhood plan to be voted on in north Norfolk.

At a village referendum in Corpusty and Saxthorpe on March 7, 91pc voted to adopt the neighbourhood plan written by members of the local parish council.

With a turnout of nearly 40pc, 224 votes were cast of which 203 were in favour and 21 against.

Imogen Waterson, parish council chairman, said: 'This means that local people will have more say in housing developments in the village with an emphasis on affordable housing. The plan also protects 'Green Space' within the village, safeguards the views of the countryside and redefines the settlement boundary; to allow some infill housing within the development area, while protecting the surrounding countryside.

'The aim is to produce more housing for young families, to encourage local employment, protect the future of the school, the pub and local businesses.

'Three areas have been designated for new development.'