A historic estate is set to be transformed into a major holiday complex, sparking fierce resistance from locals who fear their tranquil hamlet will be overwhelmed.
The proposals for Browston Hall, which has stood in Norfolk since the 17th century, would create an 80-lodge caravan park and spa facilities near Gorleston.
The plans, now under consideration by the borough council, have triggered significant opposition from Browston Green residents.
Locals have expressed alarm that the development would quadruple their small community's population, fundamentally altering the character of their rural hamlet.
The hamlet currently has no amenities, lacking bus services and cycle paths, leaving it ill-equipped for such expansion.
One resident said: "Browston is a small rural hamlet with no facilities or services.
"It is very peaceful with no discernable volume of noise or light pollution, we have almost no crime or anti-social behaviour, extremely low traffic incidents and benefit from abundance of nature and wildlife."
The local warned: "All these elements will be under threat from this development because of the hundreds of guests, visitors and staff using the site."
Browston Hall is set to be transformed into a major holiday complex
|Another villager added: "We bought our dream home in a dream location. Now it's threatened by a huge holiday development that will destroy the peace and tranquility of Browston."
The proposed development would include extensive leisure amenities beyond the caravan lodges.
Plans detail a comprehensive entertainment complex featuring ten-pin bowling, snooker facilities and a golf simulator.
A cafe seating up to 418 people is also included in the leisure facility proposals.
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The plans for Browston Hall are now under consideration by the borough council
|Residents have raised additional concerns about potential noise disturbance and traffic congestion in their quiet rural area.
Safety fears have also emerged, with locals worried about the possibility of intoxicated holidaymakers attempting to approach horses in the area.
The scale of the proposed facilities has intensified opposition from villagers who value their hamlet's current peaceful character.
The estate's owners have defended the controversial scheme, citing financial necessity for the changes.
Browston Hall has stood in Norfolk since the 17th century
|According to planning documents, the business currently operates at a loss and relies on the owner's personal funds to remain viable.
The planning statement reads: "The golf course is one of the largest financial 'strains' on the business, with its maintenance costs significantly exceeding the annual revenue it generates."
Developers identified the lack of overnight accommodation as a critical weakness, particularly affecting the venue's wedding business.
They argued that establishing accommodation and expanding facilities would create a sustainable rural holiday destination, enabling the business to achieve profitability.