Briston housing approved through Norfolk septic tank scheme

The nine proposed properties in Briston are going ahead because the builder behind the scheme bought ‘credits’ used to provide new septic tanks for homes elsewhere in the county.

The project aims to mitigate the effect new homes can have on rivers in Norfolk, through wastewater they produce, by offsetting the pollution in other ways.

Septic tanks are being replacedSeptic tanks are being replaced (Image: Newsquest Archive)

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The system was introduced to navigate so-called ‘nutrient neutrality’ rules, which had blocked thousands of homes from being built in Norfolk, by finding other ways to counteract their environmental impact.

The ‘tanks for nothing’ – which is just one of the mitigation measures being used – has been branded “bizarre” by critics, who say it effectively involves first time buyers subsidising wealthier homeowners.

At a North Norfolk District Council development committee meeting this week, members voted to approve the Briston housing, which will be built on a strip of land behind Holly House in The Lane. 

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However, there was strong opposition from locals to the project.

People living in the village are worried that local services are overcapacity and that it will result in the loss of mature hedgerows and trees.

An aerial view of where the houses will be built in BristonAn aerial view of where the houses will be built in Briston (Image: Google)

At the meeting, John Davis, of Briston Parish Council, also complained about the lack of affordable housing.

He said: “There are 95 people in the village on the council’s housing waiting list. No new development should be allowed without contributing to affordable housing.

“This will reduce biodiversity by 70pc in the area. 

“Highways officers at Norfolk County Council have not responded to a consultation. You will know what traffic chaos feels like if you visit Briston. This will add to it.”

READ MORE: Developer loses row over 44 homes in village after government officials intervene

Despite the backlash, councillors voted to approve the scheme, with just two members voting against the project.

Councillor Andrew Brown, portfolio holder for planning, said the scheme was a “trailblazer” as it is the first to have been granted a nutrient neutrality certificate through the septic tank scheme. 

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