Shepton Mallet Housing Development Unanimously Approved

Strategic Insights -

Developers C. G. Fry and Sons and the Duchy of Cornwall Estate have won unanimous approval from Somerset Council's planning committee for a large-scale housing development that will bring over 600 new homes to Shepton Mallet. Despite concerns about parking provision, community center, and flood prevention, the committee voted in favor of the plans, which include a primary school, care home, and commercial space. The development aims to deliver the bulk of Shepton Mallet's new housing over a ten-year period and meets the council's target for affordable housing.

Key Takeaways:

  • The development will bring over 620 new homes to Shepton Mallet, with 30% being affordable (186 properties).
  • The site will include a primary school, which can be delivered through either developer-led construction or land provision and a £8.1m contribution to the council.
  • The development will make additional contributions to special needs schooling (£258,000) and local NHS facilities (£276,000).
  • New walking and cycling links will be provided, including a pedestrian crossing over the A371, and £25,000 will be allocated for improvements to the Strawberry Line or other local active travel projects.
  • The development will be critical to the town's economic regeneration, but a community building with meeting rooms and health facilities is considered essential.
  • The design of the scheme has been praised by Fletcher Robinson of CPRE Somerset, who believes it reflects local needs and character better than the proposed Selwood Garden Community in Frome.
  • Councillor Helen Kay expressed concerns about car parking, flood prevention, and the design of the development, while Councillor Barry Clarke was concerned about the concentration of homes and potential impact on motorists.

Statistics:

  • 620 new homes planned, with 30% (186 properties) being affordable.
  • £8.1m contribution to the council or land provision for the primary school.
  • £258,000 contribution to special needs schooling.
  • £276,000 contribution to local NHS facilities.
  • £25,000 allocated for improvements to the Strawberry Line or other local active travel projects.
  • 186 affordable homes.
  • 30% affordable housing target met.
  • 10-year development period.
  • Expected construction start in 2027, pending reserved matters application approval.

Sources:

  • C. G. Fry and Sons.
  • Duchy of Cornwall Estate.
  • Somerset Council's planning committee.