APPLICATION BY 31ST AUGUST

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Dear Cllr Heinrich, Cllr Dixion, Cllr Gerard Mancini-Boyle, Mr. Neil Mcnab and North Norfolk Planning department, 
I am writing to strongly object to the above planning application for the construction of 10 new dwellings on land to the west of The Street, Dilham.
While I recognise the importance of housing provision, this proposal is wholly inappropriate for its location and would have a lasting detrimental impact on the character, infrastructure, and community of Dilham for the following reasons:
1. Inappropriate development in the countryside
The proposed site lies within open countryside and outside the defined settlement boundary. Both the North Norfolk Local Plan and the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF, para 174) seek to protect the intrinsic character and beauty of the countryside, only permitting development where it enhances or maintains these qualities. The construction of 10 dwellings in this location would represent unjustified encroachment into rural land and harm the village&rsquo;s distinctive and historic character
2. Impact on village character and heritage
Dilham is a small, unspoilt Norfolk village with a strong rural identity. Policy EN 2 of the North Norfolk Local Plan requires development to protect and enhance the character and distinctiveness of settlements. A housing scheme of this scale would create a dense, urbanising effect at odds with the surrounding landscape, eroding the charm that defines the village
3. Increased traffic and highway safety concerns
The Street is a narrow rural road that already experiences congestion at peak times. An additional 10 dwellings could introduce 20+ extra vehicles, significantly increasing traffic movements. Policy CT 5 of the Local Plan and NPPF paragraph 111 state that development should only be permitted where safe and suitable access can be achieved. The limited on-site parking proposed is insufficient, meaning overspill parking will further restrict road safety and access for emergency vehicle
4. Strain on local infrastructure and services
Dilham&rsquo;s infrastructure — including drainage, utilities, and road capacity — is designed for a small population. NPPF paragraph 130 requires that developments function well and add to the overall quality of the area without placing undue pressure on local services. This scheme risks overburdening essential systems to the detriment of both existing and new resident
5. Noise, disruption, and environmental harm during construction
The extended construction period would generate prolonged noise, dust, and heavy vehicle movements, disrupting daily life and damaging the peace and tranquillity that residents and visitors value. Policy EN 13 of the Local Plan seeks to safeguard the amenities of occupiers of nearby properties from such harm.
Conclusion
This proposal conflicts with several key planning policies, including North Norfolk Local Plan Policies EN 2, EN 13, CT 5, and NPPF paragraphs 111, 130, and 174. It would harm the character of our countryside, place undue strain on infrastructure, and create avoidable safety hazards.
I respectfully urge the Council to refuse this application and protect the rural charm, safety, and sustainability of Dilham.

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