Work has begun on Frome's newest housing development which will deliver 24 low-cost homes near one of the town's main employment areas.

Mendip District Council voted in January 2023 to approve Stonewater's proposals to deliver 24 new Passivhaus homes on Cherry Grove, north of the Chantry Day Hospital and the Marston Road industrial estate.

Construction on the new energy-efficient homes – all of which will be offered to local residents below the market rate – officially began on May 8 with a ceremony attended by representatives from Frome Town Council and Somerset Council (which replaced the district council in April 2023).

The new homes are expected to be completed and offered for occupation by late-April 2026.

The new homes are designed and built to "stringent" Passivhaus standards, with occupants' heating bills being reduced by up to 90 per cent through very high levels of insulation, airtight building fabric, high performance windows and doors, and 'thermal bridge free' construction which ensures thermal heating of the properties is minimal.

The construction is being led by Martock-based firm Ashcot Construction Ltd., with the site eventually due to comprise eight two-bedroom flats and 16 two- and three-bedroom houses – all of which will be available for social rent.

Matthew Crucefix, Stonewater's director of development, said: "Cherry Grove is a landmark development for Stonewater and a great example of how we can deliver sustainable, affordable housing that meets future needs and environmental standards today.

"We're proud to be working closely with our partners and local council representatives to ensure that these homes make a meaningful impact both environmentally and socially."

The Cherry Grove development lies within striking distance of numerous other housing estates which are being constructed around the edge of the industrial estate – including the Keyford Meadows site (comprising 198 homes and commercial space on Sandys Hill Lane) and the numerous development either side of the B3092 The Mount.

Mayor of Frome Andy Jones said: "It's fantastic to see a development like Cherry Grove taking shape here in Frome.

"These new homes demonstrate what's possible when we combine innovation

with a real commitment to sustainability and community needs.

"Projects like this not only address the urgent demand for affordable housing but also set a new benchmark for energy efficiency and environmental responsibility in our town."

Councillor Sarah Wakefield, Somerset Council's portfolio holder for adult services and housing, added: "Cherry Grove represents the commitment to sustainability, energy efficiency, and affordable housing that Somerset is making as we work towards building a more resilient and future-proof housing market for our county.

"We are grateful to the registered provider for showing in this small development how this can be achieved.

"This project not only addresses the pressing demand for quality homes but also for social rented dwellings.

"It also demonstrates how we can build them, to provide long-term well-being, environmental and economic benefits for our county and its residents."