Planning for Housing

Housing - strategy documents

The Somerset Housing Strategy [1.04MB] is a joint county framework of priorities and actions.

Local Housing Need (LNN)

Since December 2019, the headline figure for the number of homes to be planned for in Mendip is based on a government formula (the standard method). This current figure  is 604 homes a year and updated annually. The national  formula may be revised in 2020/2021.
Calculation of the LHN can be found  here. [197.88KB]

Strategic Housing Market Assessment (SHMA) 2016

This study predicts the how many homes may be needed in Mendip from 2014 - 2036 based on models of population and household change - 2014 forecasts . It also estimates the need for affordable homes in the district based on local incomes.  The SHMA (October 2016) is a joint study undertaken by Justin Gardner Consulting (JGC) and Chris Broughton Associates on behalf of Mendip, Taunton Deane, South Somerset and Sedgemoor Councils.  The full report can be found  here. [3.74MB] 

A report on Housing Market Areas and Functional Economic Market Areas  Housing Market Area Study [8.25MB] was published in 2015.

Housing Studies supporting the Adopted Plan (Local Plan Part 1)

These studies were used to support adopted policy DP11 (Affordable Housing) and policy DP14 (Housing Mix). These are based on local surveys.

Affordable Housing Study 2012 [1.45MB]
Mendip Housing Needs Assessment - Final Report - March 2012 [4.58MB]

Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation

Councils across Somerset jointly commissioned this study in 2011 and updated in 2013 to assess the need for residential and transit pitches for the travelling community in the county. The requirements are set out in adopted Development Policy 15. -Sites for Gypsies, Travellers and Travelling Showpeople.

A new joint study has been commissioned and will report later in 2020.

Somerset Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation Assessment (GTAA) [4.15MB] and 2013 update. [1014.31KB]