THE team behind the alternative plan for the regeneration of Frome’s Saxonvale site, say they hope a decision will be made on their planning application next month.
A decision by Mendip District Council on the community-led plan has already been postponed twice.
“The outline application was validated on 25th October 2021, prior to an extended pre-application process of 11 weeks instead of five,” explained a spokesperson for Mayday Saxonvale. “The Local Planning Authority failed to meet the statutory timeline to determine the application in January 2022, and a further two extensions have been granted.”
Mayday Saxonvale’s director, Paul Oster said, “It’s been frustrating that some consultees have taken a long time to respond to our submission and responses. Thankfully, all consultees have now made contact and we have been working through their final comments promptly. However, this process has not yet concluded, and so it will not be possible to be determined at the June Planning Board. We are now hopeful of being ready for the July meeting.”
The Mayday Saxonvale plan has gained unprecedented support from the local community and local councillors, with over 1,250 comments of support on the planning portal. A “Big Hug” of the site saw over 500 people, including many local councillors form a human chain of support around the whole Saxonvale site.
New mayor of Frome, cllr Sara Butler said, “At the moment everything we see going on is developers making money, nothing for the local community. To have some of the assets Mayday Saxonvale are going to offer would be amazing. For all the young people that want to stay in the town, it’s going to offer a space for creative development and for some of the small businesses to grow. It’s going to be brilliant.”
The Mayday plan is an alternative to the plan from Acorn Property Group, which has already been given planning permission by Mendip District Council. Mayday Saxonvale proposes a smaller number of homes on the site, along with more commercial space, a lido and the relocation of a Frome primary school.
For more information on the full Mayday Saxonvale planning application and how to submit a comment in support visit www.maydaysaxonvale.co.uk/get-involved
