FIVE Frome residents have been recruited to help with clearance at a large development site.

Mendip District Council (MDC) recently signed a delivery agreement with Balfour Beatty to transform the Saxonvale site - and the contractors have already taken on two gate people, a general operative, a cleaner and a vehicle marshal.

Balfour Beatty are currently removing hazardous materials, disconnecting services to buildings, clearing vegetation and demolishing concrete structures.

Ryan Anderson, Balfour Beatty project manager, said: “At Balfour Beatty, we are committed to leaving a lasting, positive legacy in the communities in which we operate.

“That is why we have set a target that 75% of our employees, will be local to Frome.

“With all five of our new recruits local to the area, we are now looking forward to building this momentum as we continue to invest in talent and provide numerous local employment opportunities over the duration of the project.”

The Saxonvale development was granted outline planning permission in January 2021.

Acorn Property Group are the appointed developers, but Balfour Beatty currently occupy the site, making sure it will be ready for construction.

Somerset County Gazette: CLEAR UP: Grafitti at the Saxonvale site in Frome

Leader of MDC, Cllr Ros Wyke, added: “We always knew that in addition to much-needed housing and commercial space, the development would bring jobs, new skills and future opportunities locally.

"It’s heartening to see things getting off to such a great start, with five posts filled by Frome residents already.

“The council is confident that the Saxonvale development is good news for our post-Covid economy, for those seeking a new home or business outlet, for the environment, and importantly, for those seeking the security of employment in their home town.”

For more information about the Saxonvale development and to keep up to date with the plans visit: saxonvaleredevelopment.org.