Plans are underway to build up to 100 new homes in the small Somerset village of Keinton Mandeville, despite mounting concerns about the capacity of the local primary school. Originally proposed in July 2022 for 120 houses by Keinton Mandeville LVA LLP south of the B3153 High Street, the development was later trimmed to 100 homes after consultations with Somerset Council’s planning officers.
The proposal sparked significant opposition, with over 550 objections voiced by local residents. Concerns centered on increased traffic, the risk of overdevelopment, and the strain this would place on the village’s primary school, which is already operating at full capacity. Yet, on June 17, Somerset Council’s planning committee south narrowly approved the plans, citing the likelihood of losing any appeal brought by the developer.
The site consists of three fields near the village hall and the existing Lakeview housing development. A new access point is planned at the north-west corner of the site, while an existing public right of way will remain untouched. The development promises new allotments, a community orchard, and additional parking for the village hall. Notably, 35 of the 100 homes will be affordable or social rent, meeting the council’s target for developments of this scale.
READ MORE: Next Steps to Deliver Wellington Railway Station by 2027
READ MORE: Affordable High-Fibre Breakfast Food Can Slash Cholesterol Levels
Fletcher Robinson, planner at CPRE Somerset, strongly opposed the proposals during the committee meeting. He criticized the scale of development, highlighting its intrusion into open countryside and the departure from Keinton Mandeville’s traditional linear settlement pattern. “This is the opposite of good planning,” he said, warning it would destroy valued countryside views and adversely alter the village’s character.
Local resident Paul Hamlet pointed to safety concerns, referencing over 350 traffic offenses recorded in the parish since 2018 and emphasizing the dangers at the proposed pedestrian access point. In response, the development will include two uncontrolled pedestrian crossings over the B3153 to improve access.
In addition to housing, the developer promises over £213,000 for a new play area and footpath resurfacing linking the village hall. More than £1.2 million will be provided toward expanding primary school places. However, Hugh von Bergen, chairman of governors at Keinton Mandeville Primary School, expressed deep concern, stating the current site cannot accommodate a new classroom and highlighting ongoing issues such as inadequate sewage infrastructure.
Councillor Stephen Page condemned the development as urban in scale and unsuitable for south Somerset, warning of significant community impact due to school overcrowding. He described Keinton Mandeville as “one of the jewels in Somerset’s crown,” asserting that the development represents overdevelopment rather than enhancement.
Councillors Lucy Trimnell and Tim Kerley echoed concerns over traffic congestion and expressed resignation about the council’s limited options given housing supply pressures. Councillor Oliver Patrick noted that while contributions from the development could support the school, losing control over conditions in a potential appeal remains a risk.
The council is also currently defending another appeal for 30 homes on Church Street, having refused permission earlier based on school capacity issues. The vote to approve the new 100-home development came down to seven in favor and five against, with detailed plans expected in the months ahead.