Two proposed short-term gipsy sites have taken another step forward - but councillors have stressed they do not want any permanent camps.Sites off Fakenham bypass, near the football club, and next to North Norfolk District Council's Cromer HQ will now be the focus of planning applications.

Two proposed short-term gipsy sites have taken another step forward - but councillors have stressed they do not want any permanent camps.

Sites off Fakenham bypass, near the football club, and next to North Norfolk District Council's Cromer HQ will now be the focus of planning applications.

They are bound to be controversial following opposition during and after the selection process.

Clive Stockton told fellow members of the council that the locations were based on a proven need for temporary sites in those areas, which had a history of unauthorised encampments. The East of England Regional Assembly was suggesting all areas needed to have permanent sites, but “we don't believe there is a need for them and oppose the idea,” he said.

Community director Steve Blatch said he could not give a categorical assurance that short-term sites would not become permanent, though he said such a change would need planning permission.

Penny Bevan Jones said: “We must think of these people as human beings who need space.”