Controversial heat pumps that have sparked rows in a Norfolk town have been approved to operate 24/7 despite objections from those living nearby.

The saga began two years ago when the heat pumps were installed without planning permission at Reepham's high school. 

Reepham High School and College was then told to switch off the devices at certain times, to give aggrieved neighbours some respite.

However, the school submitted an application to Broadland District Council in August requesting to keep them running 24 hours a day.

This week the council approved the application and maintained the heat pumps would not have an "unacceptable" affect on those living nearby. 

Although the heat pumps will be allowed to run continuously, the defrost cycle, which causes the greater noise disturbance, must not be activated.

If it is, the council said in its report the heat pumps must stop operating and the equipment used in connection with the use should be removed.

The council also said it had assessed the proposals and decided the impact of the noise on locals is not considered statutory nuisance nor would it "pose an unacceptable impact on the amenity of the residents".

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One person who objected to the application and lives at the Old Headmaster's House near the high school described the council's stance as "extraordinary".

They added: "It contradicts evidence from its own officers, all available noise data and the findings of the consultants who say the installation fails to meet legal requirements and that a significant adverse impact is likely."

A spokesman for the council said its decision is based on "no evidence or assessment of the ASHPs entering into the defrost cycle as part of the proposed 24-hour continuous operation".

He said: "This position is also based on previous evidence to suggest that the defrost operating cycle has a greater impact on neighbouring amenities due to the defrost cycle generating additional noise.

"Should a breach of the amended conditions become apparent, following the grant of planning permission, then the council will investigate the matter accordingly."