Gillingham Village Fights Service Station Expansion

Campaigners are determined to continue their legal battle against a proposed service station expansion near Gillingham village, even after two High Court rulings dismissed their case. Friends of Gillingham Countryside object to the development, fearing it will transform the Broads village into an industrial area.

South Norfolk Council granted planning permission for the expansion last year. The company behind the scheme, Todhunter, intends to add electric charging points, trade units, a new drive-thru restaurant, a retail unit, and a farm shop to the existing facilities. This expansion is projected to create at least 115 new full-time jobs.

Campaigners have raised over £10,000 to fund their legal challenge, citing procedural issues and concerns about flood risk assessments and the impact on existing retail businesses. They also worry about increased traffic, light pollution, noise, and the loss of open countryside and wildlife habitats.

Beccles Town Council has also opposed the scheme, concerned about its potential effect on footfall in the town. However, a High Court judge denied permission for a judicial review on March 24, 2026, finding five claims "not arguable." The campaigners' legal team, however, believes there are further grounds for appeal.