Big development plan for Brecks gateway

A multimillion pound development on the “gateway” to the Brecks is set for the go-ahead, despite concerns regarding the extra traffic impact on an A11 bottleneck.

By ADAMGRETTON

adam.gretton@archant.co.uk

A multi-million pound development on the “gateway” to the Brecks is set for the go-ahead despite concerns regarding the extra traffic impact on an A11 bottleneck between the site and Thetford.

Plans for a business park off the Fiveways roundabout at Barton Mills including a 61-bedroom hotel, drive-through restaurant, four car showrooms, petrol station, and car hire firm, have been deferred twice this year because of fears of more traffic jams.

But district councillors are being recommended to approve the proposals next week following further discussions with highways officials.

The scheme by Norfolk-based investment company Pigeon Holdings would create about 100 new jobs and prospective tenants include Enterprise Rent-A-Car and McDonalds.

Forest Heath District Council planning officers are asking members to approve the proposals on January 7, subject to a list of 31 conditions.

Rachel Almond, case officer, said “The development should be welcomed in terms of presenting a gateway opportunity to the Brecks in general as well as contributing to additional employment in the area.”

Will Lusty, of Savills in Cambridge, agent for Pigeon Holdings, said that if the plans were approved work could start in the spring.