Plans to build nine new bungalows on part of the green space at Tadley Acres in Shepton Mallet have drawn a mixed response from local residents, with public comments evenly split between support and objection as Somerset Council prepares to make a decision.

The application, submitted by town planning consultants de Courcy on behalf of the landowner, proposes developing almost half a hectare of undeveloped scrubland off Starling Way. The site was originally earmarked for a school as part of the 1993 approval for the wider 360-home Tadley Acres development — but no school was ever built. A new 210-place primary and 60-place nursery is now planned instead for land west of Cannards Grave Road.

A public consultation in 2022 led to amendments to the scheme, including increased on-site parking and additional community parking spaces, after residents raised concerns about congestion on Starling Way.

As part of a Section 106 agreement, the remaining green space would be transferred to the Tadley Acres Village Community Association (TAVCA) or another public body, along with funding to cover maintenance for five years. The applicant argues the nine bungalows would make a "significant contribution to housing land supply" in a district facing continued shortfalls.

However, some neighbours say the development would cause harm to the community. Ms Denise Wyatt raised concerns about the existing attenuation pond, questioning whether it could cope with further dwellings. She also criticised the loss of green space and said the homes must "blend in with the overall feel of Tadley Acres".

Ms Emma Bulpitt objected due to existing traffic and parking problems and fears over construction disruption. "The green space is used by so many people, including children and dog walkers," she said. "Further homes add to the already strained services of the town – health and schools."

But others have backed the plan. Mr David Eden offered his support on the condition that strict, legally binding covenants are imposed to protect the rest of the green space from future development. "This could be a positive opportunity to make the very best of a potentially negative situation," he said, citing fears of larger schemes being approved under looser national planning rules.

Ms Ruth North called the site "an eyesore" and said development was long overdue. "Something really does need to happen on this land – and the sooner the better," she wrote.

In total, 12 public comments have been submitted so far — six in support and six objecting. Shepton Mallet Town Council has also backed the application, as outlined in the Illustrative Master Plan Revision F.

A decision from Somerset Council is expected soon.

To view the full plans visit somerset.gov.uk and search planning application reference 2025/0452/OUT.