Shepton Mallet Town Council has voted to move forward with negotiations to buy the long-empty Coach House in the town centre — after a heated meeting that saw warnings over costs, calls for a referendum, and concerns about the council's future home.

In a recorded vote taken in public session, councillors backed a proposal to pursue the purchase within strict financial and legal limits, after lengthy closed-door discussions.

The Coach House, which has been vacant for 17 years, is being considered as a new council base and potential community hub. Supporters say owning a building would offer long-term savings and stability, with councillors warning they may be forced out of their current rented offices at the Shape Mendip building.

But not everyone was convinced.

Cllr Edric Hobbs questioned whether spending public money on a neglected property was a wise investment. "I've got grave concerns about spending this much money on a building in this condition," he said.

Vice Chair Gavin Mayall said: "My heart is in this project but my head isn't," admitting he was split due to concerns over cost. Cllr Jane Nicklin echoed this, saying: "I think it's very binary to look at this as the only alternative at this stage."

One member of the public, Bente Height, called for a referendum on the project and demanded to know how much council tax might rise to fund it. "How can 4,760 council taxpayers in Shepton afford to pay the money and the interest for your loan?" she asked councillors.

Cllr Christine Martin-Nicholson argued that uncertainty around the council's current offices made it essential to find a long-term solution. "You have to figure out a solution. What would we have to pay in rent for the next 25 years?"

Council Chair Cllr Dave Crisfield confirmed that any negotiations will remain within agreed parameters and subject to legal and financial due diligence. The final decision to purchase, if reached, will be made publicly.