Council Rejects Frome Residents' £1m Regeneration Bid 2026

In a move that has left many in the community reeling, Somerset council has rejected a bold £1m bid by Frome residents to create the UK's largest community-led regeneration project. The decision, announced at a packed meeting in Frome town hall, has been described as 'devastating' by local campaigners.

What Was the Mayday Saxonvale Project?

The Mayday Saxonvale project was a visionary initiative by over 1,000 residents of Frome, a progressive town in Somerset. They collectively raised almost £1 million to transform a 5-hectare brownfield site in the town centre into a mixed-use development featuring homes, workspaces, a riverside park, and a lido. The project aimed to retain the site's character while providing much-needed affordable housing and community spaces.

Council's Decision and Preferred Bidder

Instead of selling the site to the community-led Mayday Saxonvale project, Somerset council has agreed a deal with a real estate investment company based in Soho, central London. The announcement of the preferred bidder's identity was met with shouts of 'who?', 'shame on you', and 'stitch-up' from the audience. Some supporters who had worked on the project for over five years were in tears.

The Liberal Democrat-led council stated that it hopes the prospective owners will work with Frome residents, but admitted that the sale is unconditional. This means the new owners are not legally bound to adhere to the community's vision.

Community Reaction and Concerns

Local residents and councillors have expressed their devastation and frustration. Sara Butler, a Frome town councillor, said, 'It's devastating news. So many people have worked so hard on trying to ensure this site is developed with the best interests of the community at heart.'

Many fear that instead of a mixed development with a generous proportion of affordable homes, the site will be developed with expensive riverside houses and lucrative accommodation for elderly people, which may not address the town's housing needs.

Comparison of Visions for Saxonvale

Key Takeaways

• Frome residents raised almost £1m for a community-led regeneration project.
• Somerset council rejected the bid in favor of a London-based real estate firm.
• The sale is unconditional, meaning the community's vision may not be realized.
• Residents fear the development will prioritize profit over affordable housing and community spaces.
• The decision has sparked outrage and disappointment among locals.

FAQ

The rejection of the community-led bid has left many in Frome feeling betrayed and concerned about the future of their town. The decision highlights the challenges faced by community groups in competing with private developers for valuable urban sites.