Work has started on a controversial 180-home development in a village near Norwich.

The development, off Long Lane in Mulbarton, will include 59 affordable homes and a number of recreational areas and allotments.

It was approved by South Norfolk Council in 2012.

But the proposal received almost 150 objections, with many residents raising concerns over the impact on traffic, increased flooding and stretched services.

In response to concerns over traffic, the developers will make junction improvements at Long Lane and The Common and install traffic calming measures and a 20mph zone along The Rosary.

The developers will also contribute more than £650,000 towards education and other cash for libraries and green infrastructure.

James Hopkins, executive chairman of Hopkins Homes, said: 'We're delighted to be able to start work.

'There is great demand for new homes, but as a local house builder we also want to support the communities we are creating.

'Contributions from this new development will bring the amount invested in our new communities in this area to more than £1.75m so far.'

The first homes at the site are expected to be complete by the end of the year.

Are you opposing a planning application? Call Dan Grimmer on 01603 772375 or email dan.grimmer@archant.co.uk