Frome Town Council has decided to bring forward the development of its land at Saxonvale, the important town centre site, as part of its commitment to the development of Frome’s economy and the regeneration of the former industrial site.
The council owns 1.4 acres of land which it acquired in 2013 and is currently home to SSL, operator of the Saxonvale Training Centre. The land is well placed for meeting the growing demand for business space in the town centre.
Rather than sell the land on, the council has decided to seek a partner who can help to advance the development. To begin the process, Frome Town Council is currently seeking an agent that will advise. The agency will have responsibility for not only identifying prospective partners, but also advising on the structure of any joint venture and assisting with negotiations.
Speaking on behalf of the council, Leader Mel Usher said, ‘This is an ambitious step by the council and signifies our commitment to meeting the growing demand for office space in the town centre.
“We have completed survey work that demonstrates that there is little availability for office-based businesses that have outgrown their existing premises and the town centre is where many of them wish to be. Using the land that we own we can make a difference and act as a catalyst for further regeneration of the Saxonvale site.”
As part of the process, the town council is committed to working with SSL, operator of the Saxonvale Training Centre to explore whether more permanent accommodation can be provided for them. They currently occupy part of the site in portable buildings.
Interested agents can obtain a copy of the brief at http://bit.ly/2oVwQ9f The deadline for submissions is 8th May. Please contact Peter Wheelhouse on 01373 475573 or at wheelhousep@frometowncouncil.gov.uk for any enquiries.
