Residents have raised concerns over a proposal to develop 330 houses on Oldford Hill, north of Gypsy Lane, following a public consultation held earlier this month.
The consultation, held at the Rugby Club, was organised ahead of a planning application being submitted, which is expected in spring. The development is proposed for land between Frome and the village of Oldford, and residents have expressed worries about the potential impact on the town and surrounding areas.
Concerns raised include the lack of infrastructure in Frome, pressure on facilities such as doctors’ surgeries and schools, the loss of green space, and the risk of flooding.
The developer, Barwood Land, plans to submit an outline planning application for 330 houses, including 30% affordable housing, alongside a new country park, community space, footpaths and cycle routes, pocket parks, green corridors, a wetland habitat, and open spaces for recreation and biodiversity.
According to the developer’s website, the planning timeline indicates that 60 houses could be developed by 2026, with the overall ‘sustainable neighbourhood’ completed by 2033.
Many residents have taken to social media to voice their concerns.
“The land acts like a sponge that naturally seeps water into natural springs that flow down into Oldford,” said one resident. “Currently, after a period of rain, the single-track road (Windsbath Lane/Whitechapel Lane) turns into a stream. This is because there is no drainage system. The risk of flooding will substantially increase. I understand the need for housing; however, there are brownfield sites in Frome that are more suitable. Oldford isn’t.”
Another resident said, “Frome is full. It is packed. Bumper-to-bumper traffic at all times of day every day. There are no jobs, and the doctors are so overwhelmed you can’t even get a phone call.”
Despite concerns, the developer says the plans will help address the critical need for good quality, affordable homes in Frome and across Somerset.
Planning executive at Barwood Land, Jenny Davies, said, “We’ve been engaging with Somerset Council since autumn last year on the parameters and principles of this site, such as the number and location of homes, open space provision and access points.
“This has enabled us to draw up plans for Oldford Hill which, we believe, will effectively deliver the homes and infrastructure this area so desperately needs and where communities and nature can flourish.
“We’re continuing to engage the council, surrounding town/parish councils and the local community on the proposals to understand how a new neighbourhood can support Frome and the future growth of Somerset.”
Further details on the proposals, along with an online feedback survey and contact details for the project team, can be found on the dedicated project website: www.oldfordhillfrome.co.uk.
Pictured: Artist impression of the vision for the site
