Today’s referendum will shape Frome for years to come
FROME residents are to have their say on how the town is developed over the next 13 years, as the neighbourhood plan referendum takes place today, Thursday, 20th October.
The polls open at 7am for Frome residents to vote on whether to accept the town council’s vision for future development in the town between now and 2028.
Frome is the first town in Mendip to hold the referendum and if approved, will be used to influence the district council’s decision on future planning in the town.
The Frome Neighbourhood Plan was prepared by Frome Town Council in consultation with residents and community organisations in the town and includes policies on housing, design and a number of area-specific policies for sites in Frome. It needs at least a 50% vote in favour to be approved.
To see the full neighbourhood plan go to www.mendip.gov.uk/fromeneighbourhoodplan
The plan includes policies on creating 2,700 more local jobs and providing land for businesses, possibly expanding the Marston and Commerce Park trading estates.
It also plans on controlling housing development by making sure that new homes fit in with the town’s character, that support is given to self-build and co-housing schemes, and that land at The Mount is properly developed.
The town council also promotes the improvement of the town centre, with plans to make it more pedestrian-friendly, to support independent businesses and markets, and encourage more evening culture such as restaurants, clubs and hotels. The plan also outlines possible improvements to the environment around the railway station and access to the town centre.
There are also plans to improve and safeguard the natural environment in the town, including the river, and to improve facilities for walking, cycling and using public transport instead of driving.
Voters will be asked the question: ‘Do you want Mendip District Council to use the Neighbourhood Plan for Frome to help it decide planning applications in the neighbourhood area?’
Mayor of Frome Toby Eliot said, “It’s your chance to have your say so I would encourage people to vote, however you choose to do so. Although the plan is detailed, the choice you have to make is simple. Are you happy with how planning decisions are made now? If so vote ‘No’. Would you rather Mendip District Council used the Neighboured Plan to help decide planning applications? If so vote ‘Yes’.”
Any questions should be directed to Mendip’s planning policy team on 0300 303 8588 or planningpolicy@ mendip.gov.uk
