A new housing development in Shepton Mallet has moved a step closer, with Somerset Council approving the reserved matters application for seven new homes on Thorne Lane.

The decision (application 2022/0212/REM) grants approval for key design elements, including access, appearance, landscaping, layout, and scale.

This follows outline planning permission granted in 2019 (2018/0743/OTA), which had already established the principle of development on the site.

Located within the Tadley Acres area, the development will feature a mix of three and four-bedroom detached and semi-detached homes, designed with modern living in mind. Plans include south-facing gardens, home office spaces, and energy-efficient features, while new trees, hedgerows, and boundary walls will help the homes blend into the existing neighbourhood.

The approved layout also introduces a one-way traffic system, with vehicles entering from Sherring Road and exiting onto Whitting Close. This is intended to ease congestion and provide an alternative access route for existing residents.

The development will include:

• One detached three-bedroom home with three parking spaces
• Two semi-detached three-bedroom homes with two and three parking spaces
• Two detached four-bedroom homes with three parking spaces and a garage
• Two detached three-bedroom homes with rear parking and private gardens

To complement the surrounding area, the homes will feature a mix of materials, including render and yellow brick, while parapet gables and landscaped boundaries aim to create a visually cohesive streetscape.

Developers have also incorporated environmental considerations, with tree planting and green spaces planned throughout. All homes will have south or southwest-facing gardens, and boundary walls and shrubbery will be added to enhance privacy and aesthetics.

While the reserved matters approval finalises these design details, further steps may still be required before construction begins, including meeting any outstanding conditions set by the council.