Plans for a “once-in-a-generation” development of 620 homes in Shepton Mallet, Somerset, have been approved for the second time by local councillors, marking a significant step forward in the town’s long-term growth.
C. G. Fry and Son, in partnership with the Duchy of Cornwall Estate, originally submitted an outline application in July 2018 to build up to 620 houses on land south of the A371 Cannard’s Grave Road. After years of negotiations and delays, primarily due to phosphate-related environmental concerns, the Somerset Council’s Planning Committee East reaffirmed their approval in early January 2026.
The broader development plan is designed to deliver the majority of Shepton Mallet’s new housing needs over the next decade. It also includes a primary school, a care home, and commercial spaces to serve the community. Infrastructure improvements will feature a new roundabout replacing the existing entrance to Tadley Acres estate and new pedestrian and cycling links throughout the site.
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Aligned with local housing policies, 30% of the homes—around 186 properties—will be affordable, meeting Somerset Council’s targets within the Mendip area. The planned primary school near the main road could either be constructed by the developer or funded through a contribution exceeding £8.1 million to the council. Additional funds will support special needs education and local NHS services, with nearly £258,000 allocated for special education provisions and £276,000 for healthcare centres including Grove House Surgery and Park Medical Practice.
Environmental protections remain a priority. The site lies within the River Sheppey catchment, feeding into the River Brue, and thus requires phosphate mitigation to prevent pollution of the Somerset Levels and Moors. Originally, the development depended on “phosphate credits” derived from farmland elsewhere, but improved availability of these credits has led to the removal of a prior requirement for a reservation notice. This change received councillor endorsement, independent of recent related Supreme Court rulings affecting other sites.
Concerns were raised by local residents at the committee meeting, particularly regarding wildlife surveys and nutrient reports. Council ecologists assured that all future reports would undergo thorough review. The community also voiced a strong desire for a dedicated community centre within the development, a point vigorously debated by councillors. While existing plans include public open spaces and a community orchard, some argued these fall short of fulfilling community needs for indoor gathering spaces.
After thorough discussion, the amended plans received approval by a majority vote of 10 to 1, with one abstention. Next steps include submission of a reserved matters application later in the year, detailing home designs and layouts. If approved, construction could commence as early as 2027, bringing significant new housing and amenities to Shepton Mallet.