Frome Town Council will be working closely with local residents and the Packsaddle Community Group after Mendip District Council agreed the transfer of the community play area at Packsaddle this week.
The transfer – agreed by the District Council’s Corporate Assets Management Group on Monday 14 December – will also see the recreational space off Chapmans Close come across to the Town Council.
“This is fantastic news!” said Jane Bennett, Chair of the Packsaddle Community Group (PCG). “These spaces are incredibly important to us so it’s great that we can help look after them in partnership with the Town Council.”
Town Councillor Richard Ackroyd said: “We’re delighted with this decision. Spaces like these are vital parts of our everyday community; they’re where children can play safely close to home; and where families, friends and neighbours meet. Working with local residents to protect and improve these spaces is an essential part of creating active and resilient neighbourhoods. On behalf of all my fellow Town Councillors I’d like to thank CAMG’s Members for recognising this.”
The details of the transfers are now being agreed, including the legal proceedings. Ahead of this the Town Council will be starting public consultations in the new year – speaking to local residents, the PCG and to all Ward Councillors to discuss ideas & opportunities for the future.
Richard Ackroyd added, “We’re expecting to work really closely with the District Council’s Ward Councillors throughout this consultation. Adam Boyden and Mike Rideout have both been incredibly supportive of our request to take on these spaces – and we’re looking forward to working together in the future.”
A decision on whether to transfer the play area at Tower View was deferred until CAMG’s February meeting – with a meeting in January to gauge public opinion on whether the transfer of the play area to the Town Council would be the correct long-term option for the neighbourhood.
“We’ll keep people up to date with this – and we’ll continue to work with local residents and the Mount Community Association in an effort to secure Tower View” said Richard.
For more information please contact our Environment Manager, Chris Stringer on 07714 264274 or at stringerc@frometowncouncil.gov.uk
