We ask that Sedgemoor District Council (SDC) refuse outline planning application 43/22/00005 for a major residential development on farmland outside of Shapwick village development boundary, established by SDC’s Local Plan 2011 - 2032. 

This scheme is of much concern as it sets an irrevocable precedent, both for allowing development outside of the building line, and as a major development in a small, rural Tier 4 settlement.
 
Shapwick has neither the infrastructure nor local support for this - 87% of residents voted against large scale schemes at the SDC administered Parish Poll in December 2021. 
 
Shapwick has a unique place in history, with an international reputation of archaeological importance - much of which is yet to be discovered.

Genuinely affordable and sustainable housing in Shapwick is welcomed, but at an appropriate scale, within the legal planning boundary, and with the support of the community. 
 
We strongly object to the proposed scheme, which would irreversibly change the character of Shapwick, and open the gate to further large scale development.