The prospect of an arts and culture centre of regional significance being built in Frome has taken a step closer, thanks to an exclusivity agreement between Frome Town Council and Mendip District Council.

Mendip, which is the driving force behind the Saxonvale project in the town, acquired the 10-acre site in 2018.

The district council has now formally revealed plans to offer an exclusivity agreement to Frome Town Council.

This will enable the town council to work-up a business case to develop an arts and cultural venue in the Western Warehouse at Saxonvale, free from competition.

The historic warehouse has a long history of engineering and formed part of the Notts Industries business, which produced life floats and buoyant apparatus.

The district council's decision provides an opportunity for Frome Town Council to restore the Western Warehouse into a new arts and culture destination, which will form a pivotal part of the Saxonvale development.

The Western Warehouse is adjacent to the proposed new public square which will create a lively centre promoting independent local businesses and the new arts and culture venue. It is hoped this will add to the positive community feel of the Saxonvale development.

Developing an arts and culture centre as part of the mixed-use Saxonvale redevelopment is backed by Acorn Property Group.

Acorn currently have a planning application pending to transform the derelict brownfield site into an extension to Frome town centre.

Cllr Ros Wyke, leader of Mendip District Council, said: "We are delighted to be able to offer Frome Town Council this opportunity to create something unique and wonderful for the local community, and the region.

"We're excited at the prospect of continuing to work with Frome Town Council on the Saxonvale project.

"As a council, we're keen to support arts and culture within communities, alongside innovation and enterprise.

"We believe the move will further-boost the town's fortunes, and reinforce its reputation as a thriving community hub."

In addition to the modern arts centre, the Saxonvale development will feature public spaces, cycle and pedestrian paths, modern buildings and sensitive landscaping, retaining historic trees.