“Speculative” plans for 150 new homes in a Somerset town have been thrown out after concerns were raised about road safety.
Gleeson Strategic Land Ltd. put forward initial proposals in December 2021 to build up to 180 homes on the western side of Marston Lane in Frome, located off the busy B3090 Marston Road.
The Fleet-based developer subsequently submitted an application to Mendip District Council, slightly reducing the total number of homes to 150 and including a community hub at the southern edge.
But the council has now refused the plans outright, claiming the site cannot be accessed safely and would have a “significant adverse impact” on existing residents.
The proposals included 45 affordable homes and the creation of four new access roads onto Marston Lane – including one directly opposite the existing junction with Mason’s Way and one near the existing junction with the B3090.
Julie Reader-Sullivan, the council’s head of service for planning and growth, said the site is considered unsuitable for further housing growth within the town.
She also said it would have 'a significant adverse impact' on the local landscape and the existing views of Frome.
There were also concerns about the effect on roads, in her list of reasons for refusal.
Councillor Richard Pinnock, whose Frome Park ward includes the site said: “Marston Lane is a busy road which is narrow in places – locals use it as an alternative to the congested Marston Road and The Butts. There is already a dangerous junction where the road turns sharply.”
The Frome Civic Society also objected, with chairman Dr Patricia Smith stating there was “no evidence” that such a large number of new homes was required in Frome.
She said: “Frome already has more homes than its economy and services can support.
“There is a demonstrable housing need in Frome only for genuinely affordable homes.”
The southern edge of Frome has seen a number of significant housing developments approved in the past 12 months.
The council’s planning board voted in February to approve two large new developments – 249 homes across two sites on either side of the B3092 The Mount, and 198 homes on the Keyford Meadows site on Sandys Hill Lane.
Revised plans for a further 70 homes between Little Keyford Lane and the B3092 will come before the planning board for a final decision on Wednesday evening (June 15).
Plans have also been put forward to create the Selwood Garden Community of more than 1,700 homes near the A361 – but a decision on this has been delayed following objections from National Highways.
Gleeson has not yet indicated whether it intends to appeal against the council’s decision on the Marston Lane plans.
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