A proposed glamping site near Shepton Mallet has sparked significant concern among residents of the village of Cranmore, who fear the development could bring unwanted noise, increased traffic, and harm local wildlife.
The plan, submitted by farmer David Corp of Merryfield Farm, seeks permission to establish a glamping site featuring six holiday lets, a reception area, camping spaces, parking, a dog pond, wildflower meadow, and toilets. The location is near the old railway station, west of Cranmore along Piers Road to Southill House.
At a recent public meeting organized by local opponents, villagers expressed deep worries about the impact on their rural community. Somerset Council’s planning page shows a near-even split, with 21 expressions of support and 19 objections.
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Opponents, including local resident Helen Grimes, highlight the dangers of increased traffic. She said the narrow, winding country lanes are heavily used by locals, farmers, horse riders, cyclists, and walkers. The nearby junction from Piers Road to the A361 is already noted as one of the busiest and most hazardous in the region, according to the Cranmore village plan.
“With hundreds of additional vehicle movements expected weekly, especially during holidays, the risk of accidents will rise,” Grimes said. She also voiced concerns about the disruption of local wildlife such as bats, badgers, deer, foxes, hares, rabbits, owls, red kites, and newts, warning that increased lighting, noise, and human activity could disturb these species.
Grimes questioned the necessity of the development given nearby established campsites within two miles and many more within ten. “While we support sustainable tourism and farm diversification, it must be appropriate in scale and location. This proposal fails on all counts and threatens both the landscape and resident wellbeing,” she added.
Other objections related to fears of antisocial behavior and parties. Charly Body pointed out the potential for noise and disturbances commonly linked to holiday camps, referencing concerns about hen and stag parties and other events.
Supporters, however, argue the plan suits the local economy and tourism. Eunice Stephenson called it “a sustainable project supporting farm diversification in challenging times,” and praised its alignment with local planning goals for rural economic growth.
The East Somerset Railway’s general manager, Simon Bending, also endorsed the project, highlighting its potential to enhance railway operations and improve foot access to Cranmore station. Peter Thomson, owner of the station café, expects the development to bring more visitors, benefiting local businesses.
Somerset Council is set to decide on the application within the next three months.