6.102 The settlements of Ansford and Castle Cary lie adjacent to each other on the southern edge of the Somerset Levels beside the River Cary. Ansford/Castle Cary has a rich historic environment that has been recognised by the towns four designated Conservation Areas and many Listed Buildings including most notably the Grade II* listed All Saints Church. The area around the settlement has high archaeological potential and the remains of a motte and bailey castle.

6.103 The combined settlements have a population of 3,421[1] making it the 10th largest settlement in South Somerset. The isolated nature of the town and its largely rural surroundings mean that it serves a more strategic service role than expected.

6.104 The town supports a full range of services including a secondary school, doctor's surgery, pharmacy, dentist, library, bank, convenience store, post office and public houses. The town's economically active population is half that of the town's total population and largely matches the town's 1,200 jobs[2]. The town's major employers are based on the Torbay Road Industrial estate and include Centaur Services, Royal Canin and Snell 2000 Ltd. Travel to work data shows that 54% of the population 'out commute' and that this is principally to Yeovil, Wincanton and Bruton.

6.105 The town centre provides quality shopping with many niche and independent traders and a range of supplementary services. It is accessible by bus and has parking provision but there is congestion at peak times on Fore Street. The choice of convenience shopping is limited. The town centre is liable to flooding.

6.106 To the north of the town Ansford/Castle Cary benefits from access to its railway station located on the West of England and Heart of Wessex lines.