Rural communities across Somerset are vocalizing a clear message: they have “no confidence” in the planning decisions made by Somerset Council. This widespread frustration culminated in the inaugural meeting of Somerset Communities Raging Against Poor Planning (SCRAPP) on January 23 at Keinton Mandeville Village Hall, where over 50 representatives from 22 communities gathered to address the issue.
Organized by the campaign group Stop Housing Obliterating the Character of Keinton (SHOCK), which opposes a proposed development of 100 homes on arable land south of the B3153 High Street, the meeting aimed to forge a coordinated response to what many see as ineffective planning practices.
Simon Baker, a SHOCK member, outlined key shared concerns from attendees: a disregard for local plans and community housing needs, Somerset Council’s failure to challenge central government housing targets, and housing developments that do not fit Somerset’s rural character. Additionally, he highlighted the strain on infrastructure due to cumulative over-development and a broken Section 106 agreement process, marked by weak enforcement and planning document inconsistencies.
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Attendees agreed on supporting the creation of “the right houses in the right place,” emphasizing the importance of adequate infrastructure and the inclusion of social and affordable housing. They stressed that housing development should better align with the Neighbourhood Plans many towns and parishes have painstakingly developed.
A unanimous vote of no confidence in Somerset Council’s planning services was passed, signaling a unified demand for change to protect rural communities' interests.
With a renewed sense of purpose, SCRAPP is now focused on formalizing its constitution, refining its goals, and establishing a digital presence through a website and social media. The group plans to extend invitations to community organizations and parish councils throughout Somerset to join this collaborative effort.
This movement comes as Somerset Council prepares for the first consultation on the new Somerset Local Plan this spring, which will include revised housing allocations prompted by increased government targets for the county.