Exploratory ground works are expected to begin on Monday November 9, after Mendip Council announced plans to build affordable homes on council-owned land in Frome.

Mendip announced last week that it has given approval for up to 160 affordable houses across five council-owned sites in Frome, Glastonbury and Street.

The site of Easthill is one of those involved but is a controversial choice because it is adjacent to the Frome Cemetry and has been criticised by mourners who have relatives buried there.

They told Nub News : "This will disrupt ceremonies with some level of noise and access. People need to be prepared its not nice paying respects to the deceased and battling with earth moving equipment."

The sites involved are being transferred to a housing association to build affordable and social rent homes, but they will still be subject to planning permission. As well as Eashill in Frome, Mendip is considering developing sites at Norbins Road car park in Glastonbury, Cemetery Lane and at Cranhill Road car park in Street (half of the car park only, the parking provision nearest the high street is to be retained).

The fifth site earmarked for development as part of this first phase of affordable housing delivery, is at North Parade car park in Frome, where a pilot scheme for highly sustainable, modular housing is being considered.