The proposals would see a 66-bed facility being built on land near Westfield Road in Dereham.

The site has been vacant since 2019 when the previous occupiers, building merchants Jewson, shut down.

The plans, put forward by LNT Care Developments, could also feature activity spaces, a cinema, communal lounge, gardens, a hair salon, sky bar, private dining area, single rooms and fully en-suite wetroom facilities.

Plans for the site have been put forward (Image: LNT Care Developments)

In planning documents, objections were raised by Norfolk County Council due to "the absence of an acceptable Flood Risk Assessment (FRA)".

The council, acting as the Lead Local Flood Authority, highlighted that there were a number of manholes shown to be at risk of flooding and that no Construction Water Management Plan has been provided.

A number of recommendations had been made as part of a drainage strategy on behalf of the applicant, including a surface water system designed to accommodate a one-in-30 year rainfall event without flooding among others.

Other concerns were raised regarding the 25 parking spaces, which some locals said was not enough for the size of the development.

One person said: "The proposed development does not appear to have provision for sufficient parking spaces for staffing levels required for 66 residents and visitors.

"Westfield Road is already at breaking point and currently gridlocked during school hours."

A planning statement said the number of car parking spaces was of an "optimal standard" and would provide "adequate vehicle parking facilities for the needs of the care home".

It was also said that the facility would bring "significant employment, social and economic benefits, a positive and lasting impact on community cohesion as well as much needed quality care accommodation" to the town.

The application can be viewed on the Breckland Council planning portal, using the reference PL/2025/1800/FMAJ.

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