James Short has been granted planning permission by Broadland District Council to build the single-storey houses on farmland off Damgate Lane in Acle.

The plans had faced 11 objections - from Acle Parish Council and neighbours - who raised concerns about building outside the development boundary, loss of hedgerow and highway safety.

Objectors also warned about flood risk and the impact on local wildlife, as well as fears the scheme could set a precedent for further development.

Planning officers accepted there would be some harm from building on a greenfield site but said this was limited and partly mitigated by retaining most of the mature hedge along Damgate Lane.

They said the landscape impact did not outweigh the benefits of providing three additional houses in a sustainable location at a time when the district council cannot demonstrate a five-year housing land supply.

The scheme is subject to conditions on drainage, biodiversity enhancements and protecting the hedge.

© Eastern Daily Press