The future of the Saxonvale regeneration site in Frome town centre is set to be determined at a forthcoming public meeting of Somerset Council’s executive committee. This announcement was confirmed by a senior councillor, highlighting the significance of the decision for the local community.
For several years, Mayday Saxonvale, a community benefit society, has been campaigning to realise its vision for the brownfield site. Their proposed plans include over 260 homes, commercial spaces, a cultural centre, and a lido, representing a comprehensive redevelopment aiming to revitalise the town centre.
Despite their efforts, the redevelopment has faced numerous delays. In late October 2025, Somerset Council’s executive committee voted to place the land on the open market after Mayday Saxonvale encountered difficulties securing the funds required to acquire the site.
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In mid-July, Mayday Saxonvale formally submitted its bid to purchase Saxonvale. As of this week, the group has raised over £925,000 through its community share scheme, which remains open until the end of September, demonstrating strong local support.
Somerset Council has publicly committed to announcing a final decision on the successful bidder during its executive committee meeting scheduled for Wednesday, 23 September, to be held in Frome. This underlines the council’s intent to involve the community closely in the process.
Additionally, the council has reallocated approximately £1.8 million to reserves to cover any costs arising from the fire that occurred at the Saxonvale site in early July.
Brigid Clark, chair of Mayday Saxonvale, addressed the council on 5 August seeking confirmation that their community-led bid would be considered fairly alongside those from more traditional developers. She emphasised the widespread community engagement, noting that over 3,000 people have been actively involved, alongside Frome Town Council and local businesses.
Clark stated, “The town recognises that this site represents a unique opportunity for meaningful regeneration that will bring lasting social and economic resilience.” She also highlighted that the community-led funding structure aligns with recent government policies and that they intend to draw on available community-led development funding and grants.
Mayday Saxonvale hopes that the council and its advisers, CBRE, will take full account of the future benefits their proposal could deliver not only to Frome but to the wider Somerset area. Clark stressed the importance of viewing the decision as “a once in many generations opportunity for Frome,” rather than simply a routine land sale.
The bid is further strengthened by a £1.2 million investment from the Resonance Community Developers Fund, which is supported by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG).
Councillor Mike Rigby, portfolio holder for economic development, planning and assets, confirmed that Somerset Council has received eight bids for the Saxonvale site, including Mayday Saxonvale’s. He reassured the public that all offers are being objectively assessed with advice from CBRE to ensure fairness and adherence to best value obligations.
Councillor Rigby explained, “We are in the assessment phase and are seeking unconditional offers to allow maximum flexibility. The executive committee meeting in September, to be held in Frome, will present the recommended outcome of this thorough process.”
In the meantime, residents interested in supporting Mayday Saxonvale’s vision can invest from as little as £250 through the community share offer available at www.maydaysaxonvale.co.uk. Should Mayday’s bid not be successful, investment applications will be returned, minus any applicable processing fees.
The redevelopment site experienced a major incident in early July when a fire occurred in the ‘western warehouse’ section. Over 100 firefighters responded, and the Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service has classified the fire as “suspicious.”
A report prepared ahead of the executive committee detailed the council’s financial response to the fire, including moving £1,770,000 of unallocated contingency funds into a separate reserve to cover any related expenses.
Chris Hall, Somerset Council’s executive director for community, place and economy, addressed the committee stating, “At the time the contingency was set aside, the full extent of financial impact was unclear. Following extensive surveys-including health and safety, asbestos, air quality, and structural assessments-we do not anticipate costs approaching the amount reserved.”
Hall also noted that the council holds insurance for the site, and depending on required works, the contingency funds might be utilised after insurance excesses are considered.
As the date for the council’s decision approaches, the future of Saxonvale remains at a pivotal stage, with the potential to profoundly influence Frome’s town centre regeneration for generations to come.