A glamping development planned for a farm near Shepton Mallet has sparked concern among local residents who fear increased noise, traffic, and disruption to wildlife in their village.
On Tuesday evening, the village of Cranmore gathered for a public meeting to discuss farmer David Corp’s proposal to build a glamping site close to the old railway station. The initiative includes six holiday lodges, a reception building, camping areas, parking facilities, a dog pond, a wildflower meadow, and toilets on land near Piers Road and Southill House.
The planning application has received mixed responses, with 21 supporters and 19 objectors recorded on Somerset Council’s planning portal. The applicant’s documents highlight the site as an ideal location for sustainable farm diversification through holiday accommodation options including lodges and free-pitch camping.
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However, Helen Grimes, a local resident opposed to the plans, voiced concerns about the impact on countryside safety and wildlife. She emphasised that narrow, winding country lanes are frequently used by residents, farmers, horse riders, cyclists, and walkers. “The junction from Piers Road onto the A361 is already marked in the Cranmore village plan as one of the most hazardous spots between Shepton Mallet and Frome,” Grimes said. She warned that adding hundreds of additional vehicles, especially during busy holiday periods, could increase accident risks.
Moreover, Grimes highlighted the area’s rich wildlife, home to bats, badgers, deer, foxes, hares, rabbits, owls, red kites, and newts. She explained that increased lighting, human activity, noise, and traffic could disturb these species permanently. Grimes also questioned the need for the development given two existing campsites within two miles and many more within a ten-mile radius. While supporting sustainable tourism and farm diversification, she insisted any new projects must be appropriate in scale and location to avoid damaging the landscape, wildlife, and local wellbeing.
Additional objections voiced worries about potential antisocial behaviour and parties on the site. Commenter Charly Body expressed concerns about noise and disruptions associated with hen and stag dos and wedding events.
On the other hand, supporters argue the development will benefit the local economy. Eunice Stephenson praised the project as a sustainable farm diversification effort aligned with local planning policies promoting a robust rural economy. Simon Bending, general manager of the East Somerset Railway, endorsed the plans, citing enhanced facilities and improved foot access to Cranmore station. Peter Thomson, who runs the station café, welcomed the prospect of increased visitors benefiting the railway and local business.
Somerset Council is expected to reach a decision on the application within three months.