A major housing development project in Yeovil faces uncertainty after a judicial review was approved, potentially halting the construction of 765 new homes. The project, known as the Up Mudford urban extension, received outline planning permission from Somerset Council in October 2024. It includes residential homes, commercial space, a community hub, and an extension to Primrose Lane Primary School.
Although legal agreements, including plans for walking and cycling improvements on A359 Mudford Hill and Lyde Road, were finalized in July 2025, the development’s future remains unclear. Mudford Parish Council has secured the High Court’s permission to initiate a judicial review, challenging the council’s approval process.
This review also casts doubt on a neighboring scheme at Sock Hill, where 252 homes were approved on appeal in March 2024. Together, these developments could quadruple Mudford’s population from its current 339 homes within a decade.
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Mudford Parish Council’s concerns highlight the scale and impact of these proposals, questioning whether proper consideration was given to community risks and infrastructure pressures. The Friends of Mudford Action Group (FOMAG) expressed strong support for the judicial review. Chairman James Cary emphasized the group’s commitment to responsible development that respects local wishes and the need for thorough scrutiny of the council’s decision.
The estimated cost for the judicial review hearing is up to £45,000, with additional expenses if an appeal is pursued. Under the Aarhus Convention, Mudford Parish Council’s financial liability for any unsuccessful review is limited to £10,000.
Somerset Council has confirmed it will contest the judicial review, having retained legal counsel. The court is expected to set the hearing date early next year.
Separately, the Sock Hill site has been sold to Bloor Homes South West, which plans to submit detailed design applications in early 2026, following their work on other regional housing projects such as Somerton Mead.