Concerns raised over mega West Winch housing development is on verge of collapsing

Fears have been raised that one of the biggest housing developments in the county could be on the verge of collapse as a legal wrangle continues.

Hopkins Homes has just days to finalise its negotiations with landowners and other stakeholders to proceed with the first phase of the 4,000-home West Winch scheme.

The firm hopes to build 1,100 homes and there are also plans to construct a new road as part of the project in North Runcton and the neighbouring village south of King’s Lynn.

But farmers have complained of late-correspondence and it is understood some landowners continue to be unhappy with the deal offered by Hopkins Homes.

On February 12, a solicitor working for a farming family wrote to West Norfolk Council questioning why they had not heard anything from Hopkins Homes or seen any draft documents since August last year.

“The agreement over my clients’ land has clear obligations to keep us informed but this has simply not been happening,” the agent said.

“Could you impress upon the applicant they need to start a dialogue with us?”

Another farmer, who does not wish to be named said he only received a letter detailing the sale terms on Monday last week.

The firm has been granted several extensions by West Norfolk Council (WNC) to complete the legal work needed but there are fears it will not be able to finish this in time before a deadline next week.

Members of the planning committee warned the last extension would be the developer’s final chance.

The West Winch Growth Project – a flagship scheme for WNC – is a vital part of plans to build a £109m road, connecting the A10 and A47, to go ahead. which has also been cast into doubt due to the stalled project.

Jim Moriarty, cabinet member for planning at WNC, said: “We are aware of ongoing negotiations between the developer and landowners.”

A spokesman for Hopkins Homes added that the firm “continues to work with the council and landowners to progress towards determination”.

It is understood planning committee members will discuss the application on Monday next week.