An application to extend planning permission to turn a complex of grade I listed buildings into homes will go before officials next week.

Planning permission was granted in 2010 to turn the derelict 13th century Abbey Barns in Thetford into a 26-home scheme.

This would include demolitions, conversions and construction of new buildings but work has yet to begin and a new request has been submitted to extend planning permission at the Monksgate site by applicants Tey Gardens LLP.

The original applications were approved by the secretary of state in 2010 amid growing opposition to the proposals in the town.

Heritage group, The Thetford Society, had wanted to turn the site into a tourist interpretation centre.

An objection lodged by the group with regard to the latest request said that the plans were a 'missed opportunity to utilise the site/buildings for an alternative heritage use.

It added: 'Furthermore, the lack of implementation reflects the view that there is doubt over whether a residential scheme is financially viable for the site.'

A report submitted to support the application said that a number of letters of objection had been received.

Breckland planning officials have recommended the application for approval. In the report they added: 'It is not considered that there have been any significant changes in local or national planning policy since permission was granted in 2010 which would prohibit the granting of planning permission and Listed Building Consent in this case, subject to the issues relating to financial viability being suitably addressed.'

The buildings, which were originally an aisled hall and granary to the Thetford Priory, are believed to be the only example of agricultural buildings within the site of a Cluniac Priory in Europe. They were closed as a highways depot in the late 1990s and were sold by Breckland Council to the highest bidder in 2002.

The application will be discussed by Breckland planning officials on January 14.