Decision on controversial Packsaddle homes expected today

By The Editor 7th Jan 2025

The fields in the north of Frome acould be turned into 74 homes
The fields in the north of Frome acould be turned into 74 homes

Controversial plans to build 74 homes on a beloved green space in Frome will go before councillors today (January 7).

Somerset Council's planning committee east will discuss the application for Packsaddle Fields, which lies on Frome's northern edge.

A council report has recommended planning permission be granted for the development.

Plans also include a disabled children’s home, community orchard and publicly accessible footpaths. However the scheme does include fewer affordable homes (22 per cent) than the 30 per cent required in the Mendip local plan.

"The proposals have been developed to achieve a sustainable extension to Frome," the council report said.

"The application proposals would deliver simultaneously, economic, social and environmental benefits.

"It has been demonstrated that the site is sustainable in relation to access to services and facilities, including education and health services."

Somerset County Council announced in March 2022 that it was planning to sell the land off, entering into an agreement with housing association LiveWest – who put forward plans for 74 homes and a children's home on the site in March 2023.

Stuart Hearn from campaign group People for Packsaddle addressed the council's executive committee on Monday 2 December, calling on councillors to halt the development plans and engage with local residents over purchasing the site.

But he was told that selling the site for development would "obtain a higher return" than giving it to the community.

LiveWest's proposals to redevelop the site were originally due to be considered by the council's planning committee east on November 5.

However, the application was pulled from the agenda at the last minute to address outstanding issues regarding viability and contributions for local schools.

See the full council report here.

     

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