Proposals have been lodged for an eye-catching, Grand Designs-style property in the Norfolk countryside.
Plans have been submitted to Breckland Council to build a three-bedroom home on vacant land at Ash Tree Barn in Bylaugh, north east of Dereham.
The proposal includes "adequate" space for parking and safe storage of bicycles, as well as an electric vehicle charging point.
In planning documents submitted to the council by consultant Parker Planning Services, the design is labelled as an "earth shelter", providing a number of energy efficiency and sustainability advantages.
These homes are said to be less susceptible to the impact of extreme outdoor air temperatures than a conventional house, and require less outside maintenance as most of the dwelling is covered by earth.
South-facing windows would let in sunlight for direct heating in winter, while large overhangs reduce heat gain in the summer months.
The property, according to architectural firm, Paul Robinson Partnership (PRP), has been "designed to form an intrinsic part of the landscape".
Its "sunken form" and green roofs are said to help reduce the visual and ecological impact on the area.
The dwelling nestles in the slope at the highest point of the site, providing views over the surrounding countryside.
Concern has been raised by a local resident regarding the proposed home being located on a greenfield site and near Grade II-listed barns.
Another "point of concern" is the further sharing of the sewage and water system at the complex of barns.
But the planning document adds: "While it is acknowledged the proposal would inevitably have a localised impact, it is well screened by trees.
"The proposed scale, density and pattern of development would be sensitive to the wider area and its rural character."
Concluding the firm's own assessment of the property, a spokesman for PRP said: "The dwelling would be an outstanding example of an eco-efficient home that would act as a ground-breaking precedent for the Breckland Council and encourage more self-build and innovative projects in the district."
To view or comment on the plans, search for reference 3PL/2022/1143/F at planning.breckland.gov.uk/OcellaWeb/planningSearch.
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