Shepton church roofs could be replaced after leaks

By Laura Linham 3rd Jul 2026

Local News by Laura Linham 1 hour ago

Leaking roofs at one of Shepton Mallet's most important historic buildings could be replaced under new plans.

The Parochial Church Council of St Peter and St Paul's Church has applied for permission to re-roof the north and south aisle lead roofs at the Grade I-listed church, which stands close to Market Place and Church Lane.

The application, reference 2026/1159/FUL, was received by planners in June and has now been published for consultation.

Documents submitted with the application say the south aisle roof had previously been approved for re-roofing in 2022, but that the work did not start and the permission has since lapsed.

The latest scheme now covers both the north and south aisle roofs. A heritage statement prepared for the application says the north aisle roof has also deteriorated and is leaking, while the south aisle roof has had numerous patch repairs.

The statement says both lead roofs now leak even during light rain, with buckets being used inside the church.

The proposed work would see the existing lead roof coverings replaced with new lead bays. Ventilation would also be added to help prevent condensation and further problems beneath the roof covering.

The statement says the works would not alter the scale or volume of the church. It also says there would be no visual impact from the ground because the aisle roofs are hidden behind parapets.

St Peter and St Paul's is one of Shepton Mallet's best-known historic buildings. Historic England records the Grade I-listed church as having parts dating from the 12th, 13th and 14th centuries, with later alterations and a west tower dating from around 1380.

The application is due to be considered by Shepton Mallet Town Council's Town Development and Planning Committee at its meeting on Tuesday, 7 July. Somerset Council will make the final decision.

Anyone who wants to view or comment on the plans can search Somerset Council's planning portal using reference 2026/1159/FUL.