Acorn have given their official response to the decision by the Mendip Planning Board to agree to their development plans for the Saxonvale site in the centre of Frome.

In a statement the company wrote to Frome Nub News :

"On 15th September, Acorn Property Group's proposal for the redevelopment of land at Saxonvale went back to committee following a procedural review, however outline plans have subsequently been reapproved for the long-awaited regeneration site.

Acorn is dedicated to creating a desirable and sustainable neighbourhood of 300 new homes of which 72 will be affordable, making a significant contribution to the local housing need. Saxonvale will feature 45,000 sq ft of expansive commercial space including retail, a café and restaurants that complement the existing high street; along with a purpose-built co-working area that has the prospect of creating 350 new job opportunities further boosting the town.

Acorn will now focus on finalising the first Reserved Matters application for the mixed-use development which will be submitted winter 2021 and prepare to re-engage and consult with local residents and the business community. It is important that we create a new sense of place as early as possible therefore the first phase will prioritise the public open space, park facilities, footpaths and footbridge to connect with Rodden Meadow.

The Section 106 agreement which includes significant contributions being made by Acorn towards offsite highways improvements, an education contribution and the new footbridge across the River Frome is now ready for sign off by Mendip District Council. "

You can get the latest on their plans for Saxonvale by clicking HERE : the Acorn Property Group site

This morning Mendip gave their response to the decision, which was carried by one vote.

It was : " Mendip District Council, as landowner, can confirm outline planning permission for land at Saxonvale, Frome, was approved by Planning Board last night (Wednesday 15th September, 2021). This was in line with officer recommendation, and subject to agreement of conditions with developer Acorn Property Group.

Additional information was put before councillors for clarity and transparency purposes following the recent receipt and publication of the Local Plan Part 2 Inspectors Report, and also in response to a solicitors 'Judicial Review - Pre Action protocol letter'.

Planning Board took the opportunity to endorse their previous decision - to grant outline planning permission for the Frome development – which was first approved back in January this year.

The item was carried; 7 voted for, and 6 voted against."