The proposal to redevelop key car parks near Yeovil town centre has drawn sharp criticism from local Conservative councillor Lucy Trimnell, who describes it as “a terrible blow” to businesses and residents reliant on car access.
Somerset Council is consulting on the Yeovil town centre masterplan, aiming to transform four central brownfield sites with new homes, commercial spaces, and community facilities. This initiative follows recent public realm upgrades and the ongoing demolition work at Glovers Walk, promising regeneration for the heart of Yeovil.
However, Councillor Trimnell, representing the Wincanton and Bruton divisions, has expressed serious reservations about plans to remove four major car parks closest to the shopping areas. She argues that many visitors, especially those from surrounding counties like Wiltshire and Dorset, depend on cars due to limited public transport options. For both shoppers and local residents who often rely on vehicles to carry purchases or access the town, reducing parking availability could deter visits and financially threaten already struggling businesses.
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The masterplan, funded by Homes England, focuses development on key brownfield sites selected in consultation with stakeholders including the Quedam Shopping Centre, Leonardo Helicopters, the NHS Somerset integrated care board, the Yeovil Chamber of Commerce, the Yeovil Community Church, and local bus operators. Most new housing envisioned will consist of one- and two-bedroom flats, with only limited townhouses, each allocated just one parking space per home—a provision Councillor Trimnell describes as impractical for multi-car households.
Highlighting feedback from local conversations and social media, Trimnell calls on the council to reconsider the car park removal if public opposition grows strong. She suggests exploring alternative development sites to preserve essential parking and protect the viability of Yeovil’s town centre.
In response, Somerset Council’s Councillor Mike Rigby, responsible for economic development, planning, and assets, emphasized that no final decisions on the car parks have been made. He stressed the draft status of the masterplan and the importance of public input to shape the plans. Rigby said the consultation, opened at the Yeovil Super Saturday event in September and running until November 2, will inform potential revisions.
“We want to hear from residents, businesses, and community groups to ensure the masterplan supports Yeovil’s long-term vitality,” Rigby noted. The council pledges to carefully evaluate all consultation feedback—including parking concerns—before making any commitments. A final masterplan report and recommendations are expected to be reviewed at the council’s planning and transport policy sub-committee meeting in December or early next year.
Residents can participate in the consultation online via the Somerset Council website or in person at Yeovil Library on George Street.