Somerset Council has narrowly rejected proposals to build six new homes on a Glastonbury car park, labeling the plans “completely inappropriate.” The controversial development would have replaced much-needed parking spaces with low-cost housing, sparking strong opposition from residents and councillors alike.
The scheme was part of a wider partnership between Mendip District Council and Aster Housing, initiated in November 2020 to deliver up to 160 affordable homes across sites in Frome, Glastonbury, Shepton Mallet, and Street. Aster Housing submitted plans in November 2021 for six two-bedroom social rent homes on the Norbins Road car park in Glastonbury, a 52-space facility crucial to the town’s residents, workers, and visitors.
However, Somerset Council, which replaced the Mendip District Council in April 2023, refused the application in June 2025 citing concerns over increased traffic congestion and the loss of vital parking stock in an area already under parking pressure. These concerns were echoed again in a meeting of the council’s planning committee east on November 4th, with the plans narrowly turned down by a six-to-five vote.
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The Norbins Road car park, located near the town library, St. John the Baptist’s Church, and the Jumping Johns Nursery, provides essential parking for locals. Campaigners, including longtime resident Maggie Dear, stressed the importance of retaining it. “I cannot state how calamitous the loss of this parking would be to us as local residents,” she said, highlighting that parking spaces are in constant use rather than lying idle.
Critics also argued the proposed housing would be overcrowded and out of place in a small market town setting. Dr. Virginia Mortimer expressed residents' disbelief that the proposal resurfaced, calling the six homes too dense for Glastonbury’s character.
Councillor Susannah Hart, representing Glastonbury, vehemently opposed the development, stating that including the site in the local plan was a mistake and underscoring the town’s severe parking shortage worsened by tourism. She described the plan as “mind-bogglingly ridiculous” and stressed that Glastonbury’s rural nature meant residents would still depend heavily on cars, unlike in urban centers.
Conversely, Councillor Ros Wyke acknowledged the housing crisis and expressed sympathy for those living in unsuitable temporary accommodation across Glastonbury. She argued affordable homes are desperately needed despite the circulation opposition.
The decision faced delays due to environmental concerns over phosphate emissions affecting the Somerset Levels, with Aster Housing proposing to buy phosphate credits to offset the impact.
Despite the local plan now designating the Norbins Road site for housing, the council cited continued valid grounds for refusal, citing traffic and amenity issues. Aster Housing has yet to announce if it will appeal the rejection.
This decision highlights the complex balance between addressing affordable housing needs and preserving essential community infrastructure in small towns facing increasing pressures.