Plans for a transformative development of 620 homes in Shepton Mallet, Somerset, have gained local council approval for the second time. This large-scale project by C. G. Fry and Son, in partnership with the Duchy of Cornwall Estate, was first submitted in July 2018 to build on land south of the A371 Cannard’s Grave Road.
The development, described as “once-in-a-generation,” includes not only housing but also a primary school, a care home, and commercial spaces. After extensive negotiations and delays due to phosphate mitigation challenges, Somerset Council’s planning committee east reaffirmed their support in September 2025, adapting to updated phosphate offset strategies.
Designated to deliver the majority of Shepton Mallet’s new housing over the next decade, the site is a key element in both the Mendip Local Plan Part I and the Shepton Mallet Neighbourhood Plan. Vehicular access will be improved via a new roundabout on Cannard’s Grave Road replacing the current Tadley Acres estate entrance.
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Of the 620 homes, 30% (186 properties) will be affordable, meeting local affordability goals. The primary school will either be constructed outright by the developer or funded through an £8.1 million contribution to the council, depending on site viability. Additional funds, including nearly £258,000 for special needs education and close to £276,000 for local NHS services, will also support community infrastructure.
Enhancements to pedestrian and cyclist access are included, featuring new walking and cycling links, improvements to existing footpaths, a pedestrian crossing over the A371, and financial contributions to local active travel projects such as the Strawberry Line.
Phosphate mitigation is a critical aspect due to the site’s location in the River Sheppey catchment area, impacting the Somerset Levels and Moors. The revised approach now no longer requires a reservation notice for phosphate credits, reflecting improved availability of offset credits—a change requiring councillor approval.
Local concerns were raised over environmental assessments and the accuracy of ecological reports, with assurances that council ecologists will rigorously review future submissions. The need for a community centre sparked debate among residents and council members, emphasizing the importance of shared public spaces in a development of this scale.
Despite calls for greater emphasis on communal facilities, the council concluded that the current inclusion of public open spaces and a community orchard satisfies policy requirements. However, members expressed a desire to revisit this issue during later planning stages.
The committee ultimately approved the amended plans with a 10-1 vote, one abstention. Detailed design submissions are anticipated later in 2025, with initial construction expected to commence in 2027, marking a significant milestone in Shepton Mallet’s growth.