The future of the proposed Selwood Garden Community, a development comprising 1,700 new homes in Frome, is set to be decided by early April, around Easter, the Planning Inspectorate has confirmed.
This ambitious project targets agricultural land between B3090 Marston Lane and the A361, aiming to deliver more than just housing. Plans include commercial spaces, two care homes, a local centre featuring shops and a possible medical centre, a primary school, plus extensive public open spaces and sports facilities.
A public inquiry held in Shepton Mallet in August 2025 saw Planning Inspector Stephen Normington review testimonies from local residents and experts, alongside conducting an official site visit. After eight months of review, Mr. Normington’s report has now been submitted to Housing Secretary Steve Reed MP, with a final decision expected by early April 2026.
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At the inquiry’s opening, Paul Tucker KC, representing the Selwood Garden Community consortium, highlighted the development’s benefits. These include affordable housing tailored to local needs, new employment opportunities, improved public open spaces, and necessary highway upgrades to address ongoing traffic issues on the A36 connecting Frome to Bath.
He emphasized Frome’s strategic importance for regional growth, stating, “Frome is rightly the main focus for growth in this part of the district. Delivering housing here is far more sustainable than smaller settlements with poorer infrastructure.” Tucker also pointed out the acute demand for both market and affordable housing in the area, as well as the need for commercial land to support sustained economic development.
Somerset Council maintained a neutral position during the inquiry, explained barrister Killian Garvey, due to the government’s call-in of the application which limited the council’s decision-making authority. He clarified, “Our neutrality does not equate to endorsement or rejection of the proposals. We are here to assist, particularly in relation to the Section 106 agreements.”
The Planning Inspectorate confirmed that the inspector’s report has been forwarded to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. A spokesperson stated, “The inspector’s findings have been sent to the secretary of state for consideration, with a decision expected on or before April 8, 2026.”