Plans to build 12 new homeless shelters in Norwich have been delayed after they received 60 public objections and highways officials raised concerns.

Homelessness charity St Martins is hoping to build the shelters in the Netherwood Green area of Lakenham, where two blocks of garages would be demolished to make way for the properties.

Since proposing the new development to Norwich City Council in February, the charity has faced significant pushback from those living nearby who raised concerns at a County Hall meeting in February about the possibility of anti-social behaviour.

It had been hoped that a decision would be reached by September 7, but a decision is yet to be made.

Now, Norfolk County Council's highways team has raised concerns that losing the garages would result in a loss of parking spaces for those already living in the area and could lead to parking on grass verges.

Norwich Evening News: The Netherwood Green site where the new flats would be builtThe Netherwood Green site where the new flats would be built (Image: Norwich City Council)

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The team did not object to the plans but said they would have a "negative impact" on those living nearby, adding that as the development was based on a road which had not been adopted it was down to city council planning officials to weigh up the pros and cons.

Dr Jan Sheldon, chief executive officer of St Martins, has defended the plans saying the charity would work hard to be a good neighbour.

Norwich Evening News: Dr Jan Sheldon has defended the plansDr Jan Sheldon has defended the plans (Image: St Martins)

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She said: "The local community continue to have concerns, but as with previous projects, it's unlikely these concerns will be allayed until people can see how hard we work to be the best neighbours we can be."

So far the two applications for four and eight flats have amassed almost 60 objections between them, with neighbours threatening to move out if plans are approved.

Norwich Evening News: Designs for the new sheltered homes in LakenhamDesigns for the new sheltered homes in Lakenham (Image: Norwich City Council)

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One objection read: "Myself and my neighbours are either older adults or families with young children and I would have thought the council has a duty of care to look after their tenants.

"The woods and play park in Netherwood Green are already a no-go area for them as drug paraphernalia and men drinking alcohol are often seen there. 

"If this were to go ahead I would want to be rehomed for my safety and I can't imagine anyone would want to live here knowing the situation."

It is not yet known when plans will be approved or rejected.