Two recent tragedies at the Pines Residential Site, a traveller’s community on Berkley Lane at the edge of Frome, have prompted urgent calls for action from local officials and residents. The site, located near Commerce Park and a proposed housing development, has long been the subject of concern over living conditions.
Councillor Adam Boyden, representing Frome North, raised the issue during a full council meeting on March 4. He highlighted reports from residents and Berkley Parish Council detailing poor maintenance, environmental health hazards, damaged homes from vermin, inadequate street lighting, and unsafe pedestrian surfaces. Additional concerns included harassment, intimidation, and rising rents, all potentially breaching the site’s license and legal standards.
“The two tragic deaths that occurred a few weeks ago underscore the urgency for inspection and intervention,” said Mr. Boyden. The Somerset Coroner’s Office confirmed the deaths of Sammy Lee Cooper, 34, due to crush asphyxia on February 8, and Megan Webb, 28, who died four days later with hanging as the provisional cause. Avon and Somerset Constabulary stated that both deaths are non-suspicious and no further police action is anticipated.
Despite requests for inspections from councillors and the local MP, the site—sold by Somerset County Council in 2012—has reportedly not been adequately monitored. Mr. Boyden pressed the council to clarify when a formal inspection would take place, what immediate actions would be undertaken, and whether the council could acquire the site to improve living conditions.
Responding to these concerns, Councillor Mike Rigby, the portfolio holder for economic development, planning, and assets, confirmed that the council is investigating the matter and that an inspection is scheduled for later this month. He outlined that licensed residential caravan sites must comply with conditions set at the time of licensing, with compliance notices enforceable by law.
Residents are eligible to apply for the council’s housing register or join the waiting list for council-run traveller sites, though the latter are currently only available in the county’s south. Councillor Rigby acknowledged that traditional bricks-and-mortar housing may not meet the community’s preferences.
The council abstained from further comment on the inspection timing. Meanwhile, planning officers are reviewing a proposal to expand the Pines site from 23 to 35 pitches—recommended for refusal—and will discuss it at the upcoming planning committee meeting on April 7 in Shepton Mallet.