A bid to build 65 houses in a Broads village expected to grow by more than a quarter has passed a major milestone.

Crimson Development Homes Ltd is seeking permission from Great Yarmouth Borough Council for the proposed development off Staithe Road in Martham.

The council's development management committee has approved the application in principle - but discussions are ongoing regarding the precise amount of so-called affordable housing.

A spokesperson for the council said: "The council’s decision was that it expects all 65 homes to be made available in the first instance to people on the local housing needs waiting list, ie, for those with a local connection to Martham and adjoining parishes."

The site of a proposed development of 65 houses in Martham.The site of a proposed development of 65 houses in Martham. (Image: Google Maps) READ MORE: Neighbours say bid for barbershop in 'quiet cul de sac' is 'ludicrous'

Once the parties come to an agreement, planning permission can be granted, the spokesperson added.

The scheme will be managed by housing association Saffron Housing Trust. According to the plans, 47 of the houses will be for so-called 'affordable rent' and 18 for shared ownership.

The plans faced 17 objections from neighbours worried about highway safety, insufficient infrastructure, overpopulation and the loss of biodiversity.

Martham Parish Council also raised concerns regarding the junction from Somerton Road requested a 20mph speed limit.

A digital impression of a proposed development of 65 houses in Martham.A digital impression of a proposed development of 65 houses in Martham. (Image: Lanpro) READ MORE: Decision due on 176-home estate which will 'turn Broads village into a town'

Ollie Bumstead, pre-contract manager at Saffron Housing Trust, said: “We are delighted to get approval for more quality affordable homes in a borough where there is such a high need, with local connection prioritised.

"These homes will be built to high energy standards to provide genuinely affordable homes to our customers.

"Thanks to Great Yarmouth Borough Council, and we look forward to getting started once final details have been agreed," he added.

In September, the borough council gave permission to Broadland Housing to construct 176 homes, 51 of which will be affordable, on farmland off Repps Road and Rising Way.