25-dwelling Somerset scheme approved on appeal

An outline application for the development of 25 dwellinghouses near Shepton Mallet has been approved on appeal by the planning inspectorate.

The application was brought forward in 2025 by Social Housing and Planning Ltd (SHPL), for land at Crane Cottages in Cranmore, and initially saw a refusal decision issued by Somerset Council.

Alongside the dwellings, the application also sought development of a community shop, parking, servicing, and landscaping.

SHPL appealed the refusal, and the planning inspectorate assessed the main issues concerning the proposal to be the sites potential as a sustainable location, whether there was a need for the number of affordable homes provided by the scheme, and whether the proposal would make a number of provisions for any additional needs arising from the development, including public open space and BNG.

Regarding the 0.94-hectare sites potential as a sustainable location, it was found to be conflicting with Local Plan policies, in addition the provision of the proposed community shop was viewed as being too small-scale, meaning there would still be: “A significant reliance upon private vehicles to access everyday goods and services”.

On the need for affordable housing, the inspectorate found the proposal to be compliant with the Local Plan, and also assessed there to be a need for the proposed quantum off affordable housings, given a cumulative shortfall of approximately 1,579 affordable dwellings within the Local Plan’s region.

Regarding planning obligations, it was found that the appeal scheme would meet adequate provisions for any additional needs that arose, given the completion of a new agreement.

In conclusion, the inspectorate found that despite some conflict with the development plan, material considerations (such as the revised NPPF) indicated that the appeal should be allowed.

Image: Google