Knights Hill development deemed “wholly inappropriate” as public inquiry continues

Knights Hill development deemed “wholly inappropriate” as public inquiry continues
The public inquiry has been taking place this week. Pictures: Ian Burt

The four-day public inquiry has heard major opposition to the controversial appeal to build more than 600 homes to the west of Knights Hill Village, with newly elected MP James Wild deeming the development “wholly inappropriate” in a letter to the planning inspectorate.

Government inspector Roisin Barrett, who will make a recommendation to the secretary of state who will ultimately decide whether to accept or reject the appeal, has been hearing evidence about the development throughout the week, listening to arguments from developers Whistle Wood and Reffley Wood and other witnesses.

West Norfolk council rejected plans to develop on the land back in March 2019, despite developers arguing that the area was earmarked in the council’s own structure plan.

Tim Leader, representing West Norfolk council, reiterated that all four parish councils and King’s Lynn Civic Society opposed the development.

Recently retired MP Sir Henry Bellingham also attended the inquiry, stating that he had never experienced such anger and opposition toward a planning application.

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James Wild, the newly elected MP for King’s Lynn and West Norfolk, said:

“This was one of the first issues that was raised with me as a candidate in the general election. My position has always been that the scale and impact of this planning application on traffic, public services, heritage, and the environment is inappropriate and also it is unnecessary to meet the local housing needs.”

Mr Wild wrote a letter to the planning inspectorate last week detailing why he opposes the development, citing economic, social and environmental concerns such as major traffic congestion, the extra burden on local health services and schools, air quality and for the preservation of Castle Rising and Roydon Common.

The inquiry is expected to finish tomorrow afternoon before the government inspector makes her recommendation.

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