Somerset Council has narrowly rejected proposals to build six homes on the Norbins Road car park in Glastonbury, deeming the plans “completely inappropriate.” The decision came after months of debate and strong opposition from local residents.
The application, submitted by Aster Housing in November 2021, aimed to develop six two-bedroom social rent houses on the brownfield site, originally allocated for housing in the Mendip Local Plan Part II. Aster partnered with the former Mendip District Council in 2020 to deliver up to 160 low-cost homes across the region, including Glastonbury. However, previous plans for 77 homes in nearby Frome were withdrawn following significant public backlash.
Despite the site’s housing allocation, Somerset Council— which replaced the district council in April 2023—expressed concerns over traffic implications elsewhere in Glastonbury and the potential loss of much-needed parking. The 52-space car park serves local residents, visitors, and nearby facilities such as St. John the Baptist’s Church, Jumping Johns Nursery, and the town library.
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Residents voiced strong objections during the council meeting on November 4. Maggie Dear, a Norbins Road resident for over three decades, emphasized the vital role the car park plays in daily life, calling its loss “calamitous.” Dr. Virginia Mortimer criticized the density of the proposed housing, saying it was unsuitable for a small market town like Glastonbury.
Councillor Susannah Hart, representing the local division, passionately condemned the allocation of the site for housing, describing it as a grave error and highlighting the town’s chronic parking shortages further strained by tourist visits. “This is a rural area, not an inner-city location where public transport can substitute for parking,” she stated.
Conversely, Councillor Ros Wyke defended the plans as a necessary step to address Glastonbury’s acute housing crisis, where many residents currently live in trailers and caravans under challenging conditions. Wyke acknowledged the pressing need for affordable homes but expressed disappointment at the lack of local support.
After nearly 90 minutes of discussion, the planning committee narrowly voted six to five, with two abstentions, to refuse the development. The outcome leaves Aster Housing’s next move uncertain, as they have yet to announce whether they will appeal.
The decision highlights the ongoing tension between the demand for affordable housing and protecting essential community amenities like parking, illustrating the complex challenges faced by growing towns like Glastonbury.