You may have noticed that two new developments have sprung up on Peddars Way, just to the south of Thompson Water.

Watering Farm, which used to be a small duck farm although unused for several years, has been virtually demolished and five massive pig rearing units have been built with a number of tents on the land behind them. And to the south of that on Breckles Heath a large turkey farm has been built.

Peddars Way is a National Trail, which has been heavily and sucessfully promoted by Breckland District and Norfolk County Councils. It is used and enjoyed by countless walkers, cyclists, horse riders and local people alike.

Both these new developments took place without any attempt to apply for planning permission. Applications were eventually submitted for Watering Farm (after the work was completed, and after a visit from Breckland Council's Enforcement Officer), but despite a similar visit and demand for an application for the development on Breckles Heath none has been forthcoming yet.

Residents who feel that Breckland Council should take a strong approach to unauthorised developments, in fairness to those who do follow the planning regulations, should contact Breckland Council’s Planning Manager, Paul Jackson at paul.jackson.breckland-sholland.gov.uk and tell him so.

If you wish to comment on the applications for Watering Farm (all five of them) go to http://planning.breckland.gov.uk/portal/pls/portal/!PORTAL.wwa_app_module.accept

and select them from the list. You should repeat your comments for all five applications, as they will probably apply to all.