As usual, we had a full agenda for our Council meeting last night – thanks to everyone who came along!
The highlights included Gavin Eddy and Tabitha Clayson, of the Frome Independent Market, who brought everyone up-to-date over the plans for the Independent Market for the year ahead. They thanked both Frome Town Council and Mendip for their financial support which has enabled the Market to continue and go from strength to strength. They highlighted the ‘Market Makers scheme’ and a funding bid to the Arts Council to overhaul the Village Green area outside the Library.
We also had an update on the progress of the Neighbourhood Plan, and Jane Llewellyn (FTC’s Planning Officer) let us know that the next stage is a referendum that is likely to take place in October. Assuming that voters in the town agree, the Plan will increase the influence of the town on upcoming planning applications – both large and small – in order to build want Frome needs rather than what a developer wants. Cllrs were also interested to hear more about Mendip’s plans to set a Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) on new developments. Once the Neighbourhoods Plan is in place, 25 % of the levy will come to Frome. Jane agreed to keep Cllrs up-to-date as discussions with Mendip evolve.
Kate Hellard (Community Projects Officer) outlined the Council’s plans for the year ahead – to build the community and support community organisations. Items booked into the diary are: training for trustees of charities; the development of a volunteer database – which will match organisations that need volunteers with those people in the town who want to volunteer – and a fun packed conference (tomorrow) for young people in year 8, which aims to increase their influence in decision making in the town.
For more information on any of the items discussed last night please go onto our meetings page by clicking here or get in touch with us on 01373 465757.
