A couple's dream home restoration was nearly derailed, due to officials worrying they could be at risk of harm.

But plans to restore a derelict windmill in the Broads and build an off-grid home next door, all in a high-risk flood zone, have now been approved thanks to some ingenious plans and a novel escape route.

Jill and Adam Singer want to bring Toft Monks Mill, on South Norfolk's Haddiscoe Island, back into working order. They also plan to live in an adjacent eco-home, which will be powered by solar energy. 

What the revamp of Toft Monks Mill could look likeWhat the revamp of Toft Monks Mill could look like (Image: Howes Designs/Broads Authority)

But their ambitions faced opposition from the Environment Agency (EA), who complained that the dwelling would be located on land at the highest flood risk level and therefore would pose a risk to safety.

At a Broads Authority (BA) planning committee meeting this week, the couple defended their scheme.

Beccles & Bungay Journal: The new owners plan to breathe new life into the old Toft Monks MillThe new owners plan to breathe new life into the old Toft Monks Mill (Image: James Bass)

The Singers intend to build the two-bed, single-storey home on stilts to protect it against flooding. They also hope to build a raised walkway to the windmill to provide a place of refuge in the event of a flood.

This was given support by officers at the BA, who praised the innovative design and welcomed the fact that the Grade II listed wind pump, built in the 19th century, will be restored as part of the plans.

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Toft Monks Mill in 1933 when it was in working orderToft Monks Mill in 1933 when it was in working order (Image: Broads Authority)

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But there were still concerns that a rapid flood event could leave them in danger.

However, the Singers said they intended to keep a small dinghy tied up to their home so that in the event of a flood, they would at least have this method of escape.

Harry Blathwayt, chairman of the BA, approved of this means of escape, saying: "It is rather like Noah."

Members voted unanimously to approve the scheme, calling it an "exceptional case," highlighting the heritage benefits it would bring and deciding the flood evacuation plans of the couple would keep them safe.