For many years, local people have highlighted the need to make it easier to cross the very busy road in Frome Market Place and improve its appearance. Mendip’s Local Plan and the Frome Neighbourhood Plan promote the remodelling of the Market Place for these purposes. We have now heard that Somerset County Council who have the responsibility for highways will work in partnership with Frome Town Council to further develop the project. The Cabinet member for Highways & Transport, Cllr David Fothergill has confirmed his approval in principle for a scheme to come forward.
It is expected that there will be a range of measures that will make it easier for people to cross the road. The next step will be to develop detailed designs in consultation with highways officers and local stakeholders.
Speaking about the news, Cllr Mel Usher of the Town Council said, ‘It’s great that we now have a green light from the County Council to develop a scheme which we have resources to deliver. Once implemented we think this project will make a big difference to people’s enjoyment of the town centre as well as making it safer. Thanks to Cllr David Fothergill and his highways team for their help on this. We look forward to a fruitful partnership. There is also the matter of securing approval for our plans to improve the area that is not part of the highway immediately around the Boyle Cross monument. An appeal to the Secretary of State against refusal of permission by the District Council will be submitted shortly.’
