Frome residents now have a unique opportunity to participate in the purchase and redevelopment of the Saxonvale regeneration site through a new community share scheme launched by Mayday Saxonvale.
The Saxonvale site, a key brownfield location in Frome’s town centre, is envisioned to include over 260 homes, commercial spaces, a cultural centre, and a lido. Although redevelopment efforts faced significant delays, Mayday Saxonvale has renewed momentum by launching a community-led investment opportunity.
Following Somerset Council’s October 2025 decision to place the land on the open market in spring 2026—due to Mayday Saxonvale’s previous funding challenges—the group secured £1.2 million from the Resonance Community Developers Fund, supported by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG).
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The new community share offer, opening in late January 2026, invites local residents to invest a minimum of £250 each through the Mayday Saxonvale Community Benefit Society. Every member, irrespective of investment size, receives one vote, allowing the community to directly influence the project’s future.
Jon Rolls, Head of Developing Communities at Resonance, emphasizes the scheme’s importance: “We support communities to own and develop assets locally because it builds sustainable, resilient neighbourhoods. This initiative aims to secure affordable housing and community spaces owned by residents forever. We hope Frome’s community embraces this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
Mayday Saxonvale chair Brigid Clarke highlights the vital nature of this project: “Saxonvale is Frome’s last major town centre site and will shape its future for generations. We have worked tirelessly to keep the site community-focused. Securing funding through Resonance and introducing community shares means we can now rally the community’s support. If we don’t act, a private developer could purchase the site, and profits would leave Frome, undermining our collective efforts.”
A spokesperson for Somerset Council confirmed that while exclusivity rights for Mayday Saxonvale were removed in October 2025 due to funding uncertainties, the council remains committed to a viable, place-making development of the site. The site is expected to be marketed on the open market within weeks, with the council open to all capable purchasers.
This community share initiative offers Frome’s residents an unprecedented chance to become co-owners and directly influence the development of a landmark site that will play a significant role in the town’s future. For those interested in joining this community-led effort, registration details can be found at www.maydaysaxonvale.co.uk.