Following a spirited and concerted campaign working with local residents, Frome Town Council was disappointed to learn today (Tuesday 22nd Dec) that the housing development on the Police Station site is now likely to go ahead.
The Planning Authority at Mendip District Council agreed with Frome Town Council that the proposed houses were too densely packed and of poor design. However, Newland Homes appealed against the decision and was subsequently awarded planning permission by the Planning Inspector.
The other main areas of concern were the increased traffic generated by the development, in particular when school children are arriving and departing from the Oakfield, Trinity and Critchill school sites and whether the proposal would deliver a sustainable and inclusive mixed community in terms of affordable housing.
The good news is that the number of affordable dwellings was changed from 8 to 12.
Cllr Peter Macfadyen, Leader Frome Town Council said “This is a great shame, the scheme is simply the wrong one for this site. I fully recognise the need for housing, but not at all costs. However, thanks must go to the local community – especially their spokesperson Pascale Gillet – who were well supported by Frome town and district councillors working together. The challenge for us all remains how to convince the planning system that there are times when those who live in a place understand the damage an imposed scheme can cause.”
A full copy of the Inspectors report can be found here
