Source: EDP – Wednesday, November 7, 2012
5:54 PM

Councillors today have approved plans which will “inspire” the community of a Norfolk village.

Planning permission to build 27 new homes and a new village hall at Great Witchingham was approved by councillors this morning at a meeting of Broadland District Council’s Planning Committee.

The plans, submitted by the parish council, is a mix of residential and community features in one scheme,

Chris Cate, chairman of the Great Witchingham Village Hall Committee, praised the project which was “not just about the bricks and mortar but about building relationships, stretching people’s horizons, and inspiring each and every generation”.

He added: “For the past four and a half years it has been the vision of a few to serve the many residents of Great Witchingham who have endured the gradual decline and eventual loss of their Memorial Hall, playground facilities and more recently the destruction of their local post office.

“A community such as Great Witchingham thrives on friendships and mutual respect for one another. However, without any facilities in which to gather and grow, community spirit can be stifled.

“We need the infrastructure to enable not only the nurturing of friendships but also to provide the opportunity to learn new skills, improve one’s health and to enrich one’s mind.”

The plans include a village hall – compromising of a stage, main hall, meeting rooms, kitchen and a bar – three play areas for different age ranges, an amphitheatre, a sports court, a new village war memorial, a community allotment, and two car parks.

Mr Cate added: “By approving our plans for the Great Witchingham Village Hall you will be helping us take an enormous step towards rejuvenating our community.”

Councillors unanimously approved the plans.