A NEW project has launched in Frome to provide social housing to those in need.

The Fair Homes Project is a partnership used to identify potential plots on Mendip District Council (MDC) land suitable for the homes.

This initiative has been launched by Frome Area Community Land Trust (FACLT), Selwood Housing Group and MDC.

Chair of FACLT, Roger Saunders, said: “We know that there are at least 500 households in Frome who badly need a secure, affordable home – and the number is rising as the pandemic takes its toll.

"The Fair Homes Project can be a first step in seriously addressing this need.

“Frome Area Community Land Trust will work with our partners to create high quality, social rented homes of which our community can be proud.”

Paul Walsh, Group development director at Selwood Housing, said the organisation was excited by the new partnership and hoped it would bring more social housing to Frome for local people in housing need, including families and key workers.

He added: “Coronavirus has shone a light on the importance of a safe, secure home and the need for social housing has never been greater.

“Our plans are to build well-designed homes, with reduced carbon emissions and tree planting to enhance the natural environment.

“We are keen to hear the views of local residents and the community to help shape our plans.”

As part of the project, up to 30 homes could be delivered across nine sites in Frome.

The nine sites currently being considered for future development by the Selwood Housing Group are:

  • Land at Farley Close
  • Land at Hodders Close
  • Hall behind 14 Randolph Road
  • Land at Austin Close and Feltham Drive
  • Land at Cranmore View and The Grove, including land either side of the B3090 Marston Road
  • Land at the corner of Mendip Drive and Selwood Crescent
  • Land at Grove Mead
  • Land adjoining 45 Mountsfield
  • Land at Tower View

Consultation is currently taking place with residents in the locations that are earmarked for development.

Face-to-face consultations are set to take place on each plot at a later date.

Leader of Mendip District Council, Cllr Ros Wyke, said: “Mendip is making a firm commitment to the people of Frome to provide social housing for those most in need.

“We recognise the importance of providing these much wanted, much needed family homes.

"We know the massive impact a home has on individuals, families and the community.

The benefits are real - and will be felt for generations to come.

“Having a high-quality, secure and affordable place to live is something many of us take for granted. To others, it’s a dream. This council, working with partners and the community, plans to make it a reality.”

Subject to consultation and planning consent, it is hoped the social housing can be delivered within the next two years.

A Fair Homes Project website has also been launched providing full details and location maps.

The online consultation ends on June 11 2021.

To find out more visit selwoodhousing.com/fairhomesproject.