Shepton Mallet Town Council has published its Strategic Plan for 2024-2029, outlining its vision to create a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable community. The document sets out priorities across several key themes, ranging from community empowerment and economic regeneration to environmental sustainability.

The plan, which is supported by a comprehensive financial framework, includes the following key projects:

• Community Empowerment: The council is committing £30,000 annually to support local groups through a Community Grants Scheme. It also plans to offer help with bid writing and introduce Civic Awards to recognise outstanding contributions from residents.
• Art, Culture, and Tourism: One of the most significant proposals is to reopen the Amulet theatre as a community performance space. There are also plans to establish a Somerset Cider Museum, a nod to the town's rich history in drinks production. A dedicated tourism strategy will be developed to promote Shepton Mallet as a year-round destination.
• Highways and Development: A comprehensive Neighbourhood Plan will be developed and reviewed every two years to ensure that future developments align with local needs. Road safety is another focus, with £5,000 earmarked for data collection to identify traffic calming measures.
• Economic Regeneration: A push to boost the local economy includes plans to establish Innovator Awards to celebrate local businesses and enhance the town centre's retail offering. The council will also regain control of the town's Charter Market and introduce measures to improve its appeal.
• Recreation and Environment: Significant investment is planned for Collett Park, including building a new café and modern toilets. There is also a focus on sustainable green land management and supporting the expansion of the town's network of multi-user pathways.
• Health and Wellbeing: The council has set up a new Health and Wellbeing working party to develop community health initiatives and improve access to local sports and leisure facilities.
• Resource Management: A key goal is to establish a new town office and community resource centre, with £600,000 earmarked for the project. The council will also consider taking on ownership of assets currently managed by Somerset Council, including West Shepton Playing Fields.

The council will track its progress through regular reviews, feedback from residents, and annual reports. Residents are encouraged to engage with the council and share their thoughts as these projects unfold.

Full details of the plan are available on the Shepton Mallet Town Council's website.