The public inquiry into the Selwood Garden Community plans has come to a close this week with a decision expected to be issued within six months.
The inquiry began on 5th August with a four-day hearing in Shepton Mallett; it concluded with a site visit on 12th August. Following the meeting, the Inspector will now prepare a report for the Secretary of State, who will issue the decision within six months.
During the inquiry, the plans were discussed in depth, with members of the community voicing their concerns about the proposed development. They cited the loss of green space and a lack of infrastructure and services in Frome to support the scheme.
The development proposes 1,700 houses, two care homes, 6.7 hectares of employment land, a mixed-use local centre, a primary school and open spaces. It would be built on greenfield land on the edge of Frome, near Marston Lane and the A361.
Although Somerset councillors were ‘minded to refuse’ the application last year, the inquiry is taking place because the government decided to ‘call in’ the plans for a decision at national level, where the final outcome will be made.
Following the hearing, the Stop Selwood Garden Community Group said, “Although it is still early to draw conclusions, we are grateful that so many members of the public and other interested parties took the time to make compelling and well-researched representations of their views. We feel that good points have been made so far regarding the potential traffic disruption this development is likely to cause.”
Ahead of the inquiry, residents and local MP Anna Sabine had shared frustration over the hearing being held in Shepton Mallett, 12 miles away from Frome, with residents saying they felt ‘locked out of the process they should be central to.’
Pictured: The land
