A long running campaign to keep a stretch of path alongside the River Frome open to walkers has stepped up a notch, as developers have blocked the path and put in a planning application which could see it closed permanently.
Back in 2018 a file was put in to have the stretch of pathway, the Wallbridge-Adderwell route, registered as a public footpath and be formally made a right of way.
But the developer of houses on land at The Retreat in Frome are challenging that application and have now formally applied for the building work to begin.
The Facebook page for those campaigning against the closure states: ” We really need comments from the Frome community as to how they have used the pathway and why it is important for our town for the pathway to remain open.”
“The riverside path is not directly affected by this development, and it’s not necessary to close the path for the development to proceed if it secures planning permission. ”
With the planning application now active, there is even more pressure to prevent the path being shut off to walkers. Click here to view to the full details of the planning application and to respond.
To view template for objections click here
Click on ‘comments’ then ‘make a comment’ and then sign-up or log-in to Mendip Council. Email link confirm and then select ‘objection’ under type of comment.
Closing date for opposition has been extended to THIS FRIDAY 15th May
Over 1000 people have already signed to protect the pathway, which is now referenced in a recent planning application for four new homes.
The Save Frome River Path Facebook group want to get as many residents as possible telling the campaign how they use the path. You can add your voice here: Save River Frome Path – Facebook group. The survey already has many replies from runners and walkers and also from a handful of swimmers who have also used it to get into the river itself.
You can find out more about the years of campaigning here: the SWAP group
