A COMMUNITY action group opposed to the development of fields north of Packsaddle Way in Frome has thanked the local community for their continued support of their plans.
People for Packsaddle (PfP) have applied for an Asset of Community Value (ACV) status for the land which means the area could potentially come into community ownership in the future – and locals have supported this wholeheartedly, with over 100 statements of support sent in alongside the application.
The ACV panel at Mendip District Council met to discuss the ACV status application as Frome Times went to print.
A spokesperson for the group says, “We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to local residents for their statements of support and also to our local town council representatives for their overwhelming support.
“As part of the ACV process, Frome Town Council was asked for its opinion, and we were thrilled to learn that it had responded to officially endorse our position. We’ve received a personal letter of support from mayor cllr Sara Butler for which we’d like to express our appreciation.
“Additionally, our Mendip District councillors, Drew Gardner and Adam Boyden, have been extremely supportive throughout. Adam’s knowledge and responsiveness have been especially crucial. We have also heard of more support at Mendip District Council, with the significant backing of cllr Helen Sprawson-White, chair of the council.
“It says a lot about Helen and our cause that she felt moved to offer her advocacy. Finally, we would like to thank Somerset county councillor Dawn Denton for her immediate, unequivocal, powerful support. Dawn has visited us at Packsaddle and has always found the time to listen and encourage.
“To the members of our community who have supported the application and who continue to support People for Packsaddle in so many ways, we send special thanks and a reiteration of our determination to work tirelessly in defence of our special fields. Some of the statements we received were genuinely moving, and the openness and courage of local people has fortified our resolve. We will not give up!”
To stay up to date with PfP, follow the People for Packsaddle Facebook page.