A comprehensive masterplan creating a sustainable extension to North Walsham
North Walsham West encompasses approximately 108 hectares located on the western edge of North Walsham, representing a strategic urban extension allocated in North Norfolk District Council's Local Plan 2016-2036.
The development is guided by key design principles ensuring high-quality, sustainable placemaking:
Green infrastructure forms the foundation of the masterplan, with strategic landscaping creating multifunctional spaces for recreation, biodiversity, and climate adaptation.
Pedestrian and cycle routes prioritized throughout, linking to existing neighborhoods, town centre, rail station, and recreational paths including Weavers Way.
Three distinct neighborhood character areas responding to site topography, existing features, and North Walsham's architectural heritage.
High environmental standards addressing climate change through energy efficiency, sustainable drainage, and biodiversity enhancement.
The masterplan is structured around three distinctive neighborhoods, each with its own identity while contributing to a cohesive whole.
Housing Character: Mix of detached and semi-detached homes with some medium-density terraced housing. Red and buff brick facades reflecting North Walsham's architectural vernacular.
Housing Character: Higher density terraced homes, townhouses, and apartment buildings creating active streetscapes. Mix of materials including red brick, render, and contemporary elements.
Housing Character: Mix of bungalows, detached, and semi-detached homes. Enhanced landscaping with mature tree retention and new strategic planting creating green edges.
Over 17 hectares of new public open space creates a comprehensive network supporting recreation, biodiversity, and climate resilience.
Minimum 2-hectare central park providing accessible green space for all residents with natural play areas and community gathering spaces.
2 hectares of new sports pitches, with opportunities to enhance North Walsham Town Football Club facilities as part of wider strategy.
Minimum 2.4 hectares of allotment space supporting local food production and community gardening activities.
Minimum 10 hectares along southern and western edges creating new green boundary to the town with woodland and meadow habitats.
North-south green corridor and enhanced Weavers Way creating connected habitat networks for wildlife movement.
Integrated water management using surface water as resource, contributing to water-sensitive urban design throughout.
The development will deliver measurable biodiversity net gain through strategic habitat creation, hedgerow enhancement, woodland planting, and wildflower meadows. Native species selection and wildlife-friendly management will support birds, bats, invertebrates, and other fauna.
Comprehensive transport strategy prioritizing sustainable travel modes while providing essential vehicular access.
The development includes delivery of a new road connecting Norwich Road to Cromer Road via the industrial estate. Designed as an attractive main residential street with:
Enhanced bus services through the development with new stops and potential bus interchange. Improved pedestrian and cycle access to North Walsham rail station on the Bittern Line (Norwich-Sheringham).
Approximately 1,800 homes designed to meet diverse local housing needs across all life stages.
From 1-bedroom apartments to 4+ bedroom family homes, including bungalows, terraces, semi-detached, and detached properties.
Significant proportion of affordable homes integrated throughout the development, including social rent and shared ownership options.
Purpose-designed housing addressing North Norfolk's ageing demographic, with accessible, adaptable homes.
All homes meeting high design and space standards, with energy-efficient construction and EV charging provision.
Strategic phasing ensures infrastructure is delivered in tandem with housing to create a complete community from the outset.
Early delivery of:
Comprehensive legal agreement will secure delivery of infrastructure, affordable housing, education contributions, healthcare improvements, and other community benefits aligned with local priorities and planning policy requirements.
The development is allocated under Policy NW62/A in the North Norfolk Local Plan 2016-2036, submitted to the Secretary of State in May 2023.
A comprehensive Development Brief has been prepared incorporating a site-wide vision and masterplan. This will be complemented by a detailed Design Code establishing specific design principles for all development phases, ensuring consistency and quality throughout delivery.
Access official consultation materials and technical documents: