Radstock Co-op submits planning application for second Frome store

LOCALLY owned, locally managed Radstock Co-operative Society has submitted a planning application to construct a purpose-built convenience supermarket on the site of the former Fromefield doctors’ surgery, at the junction of Bath Road and Rodden Road.

The planning application details a two-storey building of contemporary appearance with design references to the new Frome Hospital.  The building aims to provide an interesting and unique focal point at the road junction with its two tower feature and is intended to contrast and complement the surrounding residential and commercial buildings.  The store fit out will take into consideration environmental factors such as the installation of the latest and most energy efficient freezers and chiller units.

If granted, this will be the second store that the society has within the Frome area.

Don Morris, chief executive commented, “Following the over-whelming success of our store in the Westway Centre, we feel that the Fromefield area is the ideal location for our second store in Frome. We have strong links with the local community due to the fact that many of our staff, members and business partners reside or operate out of the Frome area.

“We feel that the development of the site to provide a community store will reduce car journeys to further afield retail outlets, thus reducing carbon emissions and traffic congestion.

“Our local knowledge and experience within the area coupled with the fact that we are an independent co-operative society, owned by our members, means that we can give the local community a store which has the ability to respond to local preferences. We are keen to support local suppliers and as a consequence have developed a wide product range within our retail estate.

“We believe that currently, the Fromefield area is under-provided for in terms of its retail provision and we are confident that this planning application will benefit and serve the area well contributing to its sustainability.”