By Local Democracy Reporter Daniel Mumby
The Saxonvale site could be sold off by Somerset Council if alternative means to finance its redevelopment cannot be secured.
Somerset Council’s executive agreed in late-January to sell the Saxonvale brownfield site to Mayday Saxonvale, which aims to deliver much-needed low-cost homes, commercial space and new leisure facilities in this location.
Nearly nine months on from this decision, Mayday has not been able to officially purchase the site from the council, due to struggles in securing the necessary finance from its partners.
The council has said that the Mayday proposals still offer the best vision for the site – but added that it would consider selling the site on the open market if alternative funding sources could not be swiftly secured.
The Mayday Saxonvale proposal includes 263 homes, of which at least 30 per cent will be affordable (with a stretch target of 50 per cent), at least 10,000 sq m of commercial and community space, including an enterprise centre and a “community kitchen,” a cultural centre within the ‘western warehouse,’ a riverside park and children’s play area, improved cycle links between the site and Vicarage Street, the realignment of the A362 Garsdale roundabout and £246,000 towards improving the Gorehedge junction, new public open spaces, a hotel and spa, a lido and nearly £828,000 for improving local schools.
Councillor Dawn Denton who represents Frome North raised the issue when the council’s executive committee met in Taunton on Wednesday 1st October and asked what reasons there are for the lack of movement on Saxonvale.
Councillor Mike Rigby, portfolio holder for economic development, planning and assets, said that “complex and challenging” discussions were ongoing with Mayday Saxonvale and confirmed that the latter had so far been unable to complete their purchase of the site.
He said, “We remain committed to ensuring that public land is used responsibly and in a way that delivers long-term value for the community.
“Mayday’s innovative proposal and delivery models seeks to recycle profit back into the development and was seen as a unique opportunity for the redevelopment of the site.
“The offer still represents ‘best consideration’ for the council, its taxpayers and the residents of Frome – and because of this, we’ve continued to support Mayday in the hope and anticipation that the sale can be completed.
“We’re working to balance the need for timely delivery with the importance of getting the project right.”
Under Section 123 of the Local Government Act 1972, the council must seek “best consideration” in the sale of any public land or assets – meaning it cannot just sell land for a scheme which is more locally popular at a lower financial return.
Mike Rigby said that the council would re-market the Saxonvale site if Mayday was unable to secure its funding through an alternative model.
He stated, “The council is considering an alternative funding proposals from Mayday, alongside the original put forward last year. In addition, officers have a contingency plan to re-market the site for sale should the sale fall through.
“Any alternative proposals, whether from Mayday or a council decision to pursue a different route to disposal, would need to come back to the executive for approval.
“We share the frustration of the continued delay in completing this sale. We appreciate the community’s patience and passion for this site, and we remain committed to facilitating a scheme of which Frome can be proud.”
Following the meeting, Mayday Saxonvale director Paul Oster said that he was in “active discussions” with alternative backers for their vision for the site, and thanked both the council and public for their patience.
He said, “As our initial funding partner has continued to experience delays, we want to assure our community that Saxonvale has not been left on hold.
“We have continued to work tirelessly to bring together an alternative funding strategy in what is currently a challenging market. We’ve now laid the foundations of a new funding route and are in active discussions to complete the picture.
“While there is still work to do, we are encouraged by progress and remain cautiously optimistic.
“We are extremely grateful for the patience shown by both the community and Somerset Council as we work through this critical stage with care.
“Our goal remains the same as it has always been: to secure Saxonvale and deliver a development that serves Frome, rooted in people, sustainability, and social value.”
