The company - which employs 700 staff - is one of the country's largest specialist pig businesses and currently operates on both sides of the busy Brandon Road.

According to the Eastern Daily Press, Bowes wants to redevelop the north site, which has car and lorry parking, vehicle servicing, workshops and storage and build 131 new homes, including up to 30pc for affordable housing.

The new application comes as Breckland councillors prepare to discuss plans for 113 more houses, 22 flats and five shops on the former RAF Watton station.

The schemes show the keen interest by developers for expansion in the Watton area.

Bowes chief executive Adrian Dowling said the proposed scheme would “consolidate” the operation on one site, improve road safety, provide housing for potential employees and allow Bowes to invest for the future.