A massive housing development in Shepton Mallet has been given cautious backing by town councillors – who've flagged serious worries over flood risk, road layout and the siting of a children's play area.

At a meeting Shepton Mallet Town Council supported in principle the first phase of a 620-home scheme at Cannard's Grave, being brought forward by CG Fry and the Duchy of Cornwall.

But members made it clear they're not happy with several elements of the proposal.

The reserved matters application – which covers 311 homes, estate roads, drainage and green spaces – will now go to Somerset Council for a final decision. In the meantime, the town council is submitting a list of concerns they say must be addressed before a single brick is laid.

Top of the list is flooding. The developers want to use a series of attenuation ponds to manage surface water, but councillors questioned how effective they'll be – and who'll be left holding the bill when they need maintaining.

There were also strong words about the location of a proposed children's play area, which sits right next to a main road.

Parking and access were another flashpoint, with fears that narrow roads could make it hard for bin lorries and emergency vehicles to get through. And with 620 homes comes pressure on the basics: water, sewage, schools and GP surgeries.

The town's Neighbourhood Plan also got a mention, with councillors saying the scheme needs to do more on biodiversity and proper community facilities.

Public comments echoed many of the same concerns – especially when it comes to drainage, traffic and the impact on existing homes.

Elsewhere in planning, councillors objected to plans for a new takeaway at 39 Town Street, warning it could add noise and waste problems to the area. But they gave the green light to EV charging points in the Commercial Road car park, calling it a step forward for the town's green credentials. Minor tweaks to The Old Market Hall were also approved, with councillors praising the "sympathetic" approach to the historic building.

All comments will now go to Somerset Council, which will have the final say.