After nearly three years of delays, nearly 20 affordable homes are set to be built on the underutilised North Parade car park in Frome, Somerset. The site, located off North Hill Mews, was identified by Mendip District Council in November 2020 as a key location for social housing development.
Since then, the council and its successor, Somerset Council, have collaborated with Stonewater housing association to advance the project. A land swap with the neighbouring Farleigh Further Education College was secured in mid-2021, paving the way for development.
In May 2023, Stonewater submitted a formal planning application to construct 18 low-cost, low-carbon homes on the site, consisting of nine flats and nine houses. Somerset Council has now granted planning permission, allowing construction to commence as early as late summer 2024.
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The development site lies north of Frome’s railway line, conveniently within walking distance of Rodden Meadow and the Saxonvale regeneration area, soon to be offered on the open market. The site was designated for development in the revised Mendip Local Plan Part II, adopted by councillors in September 2025.
Current access to the car park is via a one-way system connecting North Hill Mews to B3090 Fromefield Road. Under the new plans, the existing exit road will be closed to motor vehicles, while the entrance from North Hill Mews will be widened to improve visibility and safety.
The 18 new homes will include a mix of one-bedroom flats and two-bedroom houses, all available at social or affordable rent. Of the existing car park spaces, 38 will be retained, including two for disabled users. The project will also introduce 28 new cycle parking spaces.
A spokesperson for Agile Planning, representing the developer, highlighted that the proposal preserves and enhances existing trees while complementing the area’s heritage. The development will improve access to Millennium Green and enhance road safety. Additionally, parking provisions will include EV charging points for residents, reflecting the site’s proximity to the town centre.
Stonewater is also nearing completion on 24 Passivhaus-certified homes at Cherry Grove on Frome’s southern edge near the Marston Trading Estate.
The North Parade housing plans were approved by Somerset Council’s planning officers under delegated powers, bypassing a public planning committee decision. Construction is expected to begin within six months, marking a significant step forward in providing sustainable, affordable housing in Frome.