Shepton Mallet residents have voted overwhelmingly in favour of the town's Neighbourhood Plan, securing a legally binding say over future development, housing, and infrastructure through to 2034.

The result of the public referendum, held on 17 July, means Somerset Council will now adopt the Plan as part of its formal planning framework — giving the community new powers to shape how Shepton grows and changes in the years ahead.

The Neighbourhood Plan has been more than a decade in the making and was created through extensive consultation with residents, local groups, and businesses. It covers everything from housing and transport to green space, heritage, and health services.

Councillor Matt Harrison, the Council's Neighbourhood Plan Lead, said: "This result shows the community's belief in taking control of our town's future. The Plan gives us a stronger voice to make sure new developments are well designed, sustainable and reflect Shepton's unique character."

The Plan allocates land for more than 1,000 new homes by 2034, including a site for up to 150 homes west of Cannard's Grave Road. Strict infrastructure and access conditions are in place to avoid congestion on nearby residential roads.

Other key policies include the creation of a new community hub, protection for 14 Local Green Spaces, and stronger ecological safeguards including designated wildlife corridors.

Parking, active travel and public transport provision are also covered, with new standards requiring proper visitor parking, walking and cycling routes, and better use of developer contributions.

Richard Thomas, Chair of the Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group, said: "This has been a truly community-led process. From day one we've listened to residents, businesses, and local groups. Today's result is something Shepton can be proud of. It's our plan, and our future."

The final version of the plan, along with policy maps and background documents, can be viewed at www.smnplan.org.uk