A bid for two "sustainable" houses in a Norfolk village has been denied over fears it may "erode the rural character" of the area.

Plans for the two homes in Aldeby, near Beccles, were submitted by Michael Ashford in July last year.

The applicant proposed the two buildings should be built in an "unused field" off Rectory Road.

However, the application has been denied by South Norfolk Council. 

The application has been refused on five counts including “unsustainable development” and “out of character/impact on the landscape”. 

The delegated report says: “The application site is remote from schooling, convenience shopping, health provision and employment opportunities with limited scope for improving access by foot and public transport."

The concept site plan on the South Norfolk and Broadlands planning portalThe proposed site plan on the South Norfolk and Broadlands planning portal (Image: Agora Architects) READ MORE: Beccles garden neighbourhood proposal submitted in new year

"The proposal would erode the rural character of the site and would be out of keeping with the character and appearance of the surrounding rural area."

The report adds the dwellings "would represent an unacceptable intrusion of built form in this countryside location".

"It would not make a positive contribution to the local character and distinctiveness of the area.”

Neighbours expressed their concerns over the additional houses increasing flooding in the area, with one saying "two homes have been flooded in recent years". 

A sketch by Agora Architects of the proposed properties on the South Norfolk and Broadland planning portal A sketch by Agora Architects of the proposed properties on the South Norfolk and Broadland planning portal (Image: Agora Architects) READ MORE: Brooke bungalows planning application is approved

Another neighbour believed the site "could look very overpowering especially if it is not restricted to bungalows in keeping with the rest of the lower lying properties in the road”.

Aldeby Parish Council objected to the plans "on the grounds of flood risk and unsuitable use of productive arable land".

The application had proposed four parking spaces with the properties and said it was unknown how many bedrooms the properties would include.

But, the concept site plan suggested the properties would include four bedrooms, with three ensuite bathrooms, and a guest suite. 

Mr Ashford had applied for planning permission on the same site for four properties in 2022 which was denied last year.