Neighbourhood Plan on the cards for Frome

A further step forward has been taken in seeing the completion of a plan designed to shape Frome’s future.

Frome Town Council has submitted their Neighbourhood Plan to Mendip District Council so a final stage of consultation can take place before it is examined by an independent examiner.

Frome Town Council has already consulted widely on the plan with residents, businesses and a range of interest groups during the production stages, and now the Local Planning Authority (in this case Mendip District Council) is legally required to publicise and consult on the produced plan, the final stage before its examination.

Whilst Mendip District Council’s Local Plan, which has recently passed its independent examination and is anticipated to be adopted in December, sets out the overall development strategy for Mendip, including housing numbers and broad locations, the Neighbourhood Plan is specific to the town of Frome. It contains local objectives and policies for the town, including town centre improvements, protection of open spaces and regeneration initiatives such as the Frome River Corridor.

Once “made” (passing an independent examination and public referendum) Neighbourhood Plans will be used in determining planning applications and future allocations in their area, so are a powerful tool in shaping a town or village.

Nigel Woollcombe-Adams, portfolio holder for Built Environment said, “Neighbourhood Plans are a powerful way for communities to have their voices heard and to guide the future development of their towns and villages. This is Frome’s plan, conceived and developed by Frome Town Council, partners and residents  and as it gets closer to becoming part of planning policy in the district we would like to know what you think. We would urge anyone with an interest in the future of Frome to be involved in this process.”

Many organisations and residents have already contributed to the plan and this final stage in the process concerns whether the plan meets the requirements for a Neighbourhood Plan. This is explained in more detail on the council’s website  www.mendip.gov .uk/neighbourhoodplanning

The consultation will run from Monday 10th November to Tuesday 23rd December and the documents are available to view on Mendip District Council’s website  www.mendip .gov.uk/fromeneighbourhoodplan as well as in person at:

· Mendip District Council Offices, Cannards Grave Road, Shepton Mallet BA4 5BT (Opening hours: 8.30am – 5.00pm (Mon – Fri))

· Frome Information Centre at Frome Library (Opening hours: 9.30am – 5.00pm (Mon – Fri) and 9.30am – 4.00pm (Sat))

· Frome Town Council offices, 5, Palmer Street, Frome (Opening hours: 9.00am – 5.00pm (Mon – Thurs) and 9.00am – 4.30pm (Fri))

Should you have any queries or require any further information then please contact a member of the planning policy team by email planningpolicy @mendip.gov.uk or by telephone: 0300 303 8588.