Bromford Flagship says it ‘fully respects’ Norfolk planning rejection but does not rule out challenge

Bromford Flagship says it is weighing up its options and will “take time” to understand the decision to refuse its plans to redevelop an estate in Norfolk but did not completely rule out a legal challenge.

Last week, Breckland District Council’s planning committee rejected its proposals for a 500-home uplift of the existing 1,087 homes on the Abbey Estate in Thetford.

The refusal, which went against the recommendation of officers, came on the back of a significant campaign by residents of the estate.

In a statement, Dave Armstrong, chief operating officer at the 80,000-home provider, said: “We’re naturally disappointed, but we fully respect the decision and the views that have been shared.

“We’ve spent the past five years working with local people and listening to their hopes for the Abbey. We’ve heard that change is needed, and we remain committed to working with the council and the community to make that happen.”

However a spokesperson for the housing association subsequently clarified to Housing Today that this comment did not mean it had firmly ruled out a legal challenge to the local authority’s decision and that it was still weighing up its options.

Breckland councillors’ refusal of the scheme was greeted by loud applause at the meeting on Thursday. The application had received 193 objections through the council’s planning portal and Thetford Town Council had also stated its opposition.

Opponents argue that the plans would result in a loss of open space and private garages, while straining local services.

Councillors initially cited the reduction in open space as the basis for refusal, but were advised by an officer that this was “not justifiable on the facts” and that it would be “extremely difficult to defend at a public inquiry”.

He suggested that, while the plans were generally compliant with local development policy, the stress caused by “uncertainties” around Flagship’s plans, particularly relating to compulsory purchase, could be argued to be a material factor that outweighed this. This justification was endorsed by councillors.

The housing association said the proposed regeneration would have improved existing homes, green and public spaces, and parking and lighting.

“The Abbey matters to us because the people who live there matter. Our aim remains the same; to improve homes, green spaces, and community facilities in a way that reflects what people want. 

“We’ll take time now to understand the reasons behind the decision, listen to what’s been said, and explore how we move forward together.”

“Bromford Flagship has always said the Abbey regeneration would be delivered in phases and shaped by local feedback. The organisation will now reflect on the decision and consider next steps whilst maintaining its commitment to the Abbey community.”