An action group working tirelessly to protect a section of protected green space in part of Norwich said it is "watching and waiting" for a developer's next move after it revealed its intentions to build homes on multiple sites across the county.

Fears that the deer park in Old Catton could be turned into a housing site were raised after the space was purchased by Devlin Developments last April.

The park, the inspiration for Anna Sewell's Black Beauty, was owned by the Buxton family before selling to the Attleborough-based housing company.

Norwich Evening News: Horses at the Old Catton deer parkHorses at the Old Catton deer park (Image: Kathy Branson)

The Deer Park Action Group (DPAG) was then founded in a bid to protect the beloved land from being built on.

In August, the deer park was designated as an Asset of Community Value by Broadland District Council - an accolade awarded to amenities important to communities in a bid to retain them.

Norwich Evening News: The deer park in Old CattonThe deer park in Old Catton (Image: Newsquest)

And in December Norfolk Wildlife Trust confirmed the deer park is likely to be awarded County Wildlife Site status - another boost in DPAG's campaign to protect the site.

Just last week, Devlin Developments announced that it has purchased several sites across Norfolk, reigniting fears about the deer park's future.

Devlin Developments has been approached for comment.

Kathy Branson, chairwoman of DPAG, said: "We read their update as them preparing a planning application for the deer park.

"We're watching and waiting."

Norwich Evening News: Kathy Branson, chairwoman of the Deer Park Action Group (DPAG) with a mother and foal at the green space in Old CattonKathy Branson, chairwoman of the Deer Park Action Group (DPAG) with a mother and foal at the green space in Old Catton (Image: Denise Bradley/Archant 2022)

DPAG surveys have found 'incredibly rare' bats at the park and two foals were born on the site last year.

READ MORE: Poll launched to name Deer Park's newborn foal

"We'll pull every rabbit out of the hat to protect the park," she added.

"But we can't be confident we can prevent houses being built.

Norwich Evening News: The newborn male foal at Deer Park, Old Catton - Picture: NewsquestThe newborn male foal at Deer Park, Old Catton - Picture: Newsquest (Image: Denise Bradley/Archant 2022)

"Nobody can say it is 'just a green space'.

"It's home to rare birds, bats, and other species - and it has a number of protections on it because of its historical and visual value, too.

"We're not backing down. The deer park is just too important."