A village could get nearly 80 new homes after plans were submitted for a large housing development.

The proposal, lodged with Breckland Council, is seeking to build up to 79 properties on land to the west of The Street in Sporle, near Swaffham.

Part of the site is currently home to Essex Farm Piggery, meaning a second application is asking for permission to relocate the existing pig farm to a site 700 metres southeast, north of the A47.

The newly built piggery would comprise of two pig rearing buildings, two silos, an office, straw storage building and a workshop.

If approved, the housing development would contain dwellings with between one and five bedrooms, and a mix of property types including apartments, bungalows, terraced, semi-detached and detached houses.

In keeping with planning policy, 25pc of the properties are designated as affordable housing units.

The 4.94-hectare site would accommodate 160 parking spaces - approximately two per household - while a children's play space and recreational play space would also be provided.

Planning documents sent to the council by estate agent Durrants say the application provides "opportunity for a significantly improved planning arrangement" in the village.

The conclusion adds that the development would "sustainably manage the growth requirements of the village and economic needs of an established local rural business whilst minimizing adverse impacts on the environment."