AMBITIOUS plans to improve the River Frome through the town have been unveiled by a local campaign group.
The Friends of the (Somerset) River Frome launched a consultation document on the future of the river at their AGM last month.
Their plans include a range of proposals for protecting and improving the river environment and better public access to the river.
Amongst the ideas are a proposed new footbridge across the river near Adderwell – potentially providing a new footpath from the housing development at Southfield Farm into the town and the railway station; improvements to the river corridor through the town centre to provide a more attractive environment; and improvements to ‘The Dippy’, turning it into a wildlife area for future generations.
The plans take account of the potential impact on the river of the major housing developments currently taking place or planned for Frome in the near future.
Other proposals include • enhancing habitats for wildlife and the reintroduction of keystone species including beavers and water voles; • plans to protect the river from pollution; • establishing an annual river festival event; • starting a citizen science programme for young people and the reinstating of the historical bridge between Saxonvale and Willow Vale as part of the Saxonvale development.
Following the AGM, Tony House said, “Simon Keyes spoke on FoRF’s excellent new River Strategy 2030-30 which can be downloaded on http://friendsoftheriverfrome .co.uk, the purpose of which is to protect and improve our river. This was followed by Bob Sargent, (consulting hydrologist) giving us more insight on how this would be achieved.
“James Hallybone of Roundfield landscape architects, based in Frome, gave an illustrated talk showing drawings of a proposed foot bridge across our river near Adderwell, saving children and parents having to walk an extra mile to and from school along the very busy Portway road.
“Sue Everett (ecologist and sustainability consultant) also talked on the subject of protecting our river from pollution, focusing on her on-going project improving “The Dippy,” turning it into a wildlife area for future generations.
“Many attending joined as new members, but there is always a welcome for more to possibly become river fly /otter surveyors or generally give support. The (Somerset) River Frome and its great wildlife needs you.”
To see the Friends’ consultation document and for more information about the group, visit http://friendsoftheriverfrome .co.uk.
60 FoRF supporters attended the AGM and heard chair Mike Ball report on what had been achieved in 2019.
Andrew, the group’s IT specialist, and Dorothy Bryant were presented with long service membership awards.
