Plans for 35 new Somerset homes move a step closer
A key legal hurdle has been cleared, paving the way for the new homes
Plans for up to 35 new homes in a Somerset village have moved forwards after a key legal agreement was signed off by the local authority.
The development, on land off Trowbridge Road near Frome, will now progress to the next stage of the planning process, where more detailed designs for the site will be drawn up and submitted for approval.
The scheme was originally approved at committee stage in December 2025, despite concerns raised locally over traffic in the area and pressure on existing sewerage infrastructure. Those objections were set out during the earlier planning discussions, but councillors backed the principle of development on the site.
The latest milestone comes six months after that decision, following the completion of a formal legal agreement between the developer and the council. That agreement unlocks the next phase of planning, known as a reserved matters application, which will set out the full layout, appearance and landscaping of the new neighbourhood.
The proposals include 35 homes in total, with 11 classed as affordable housing. The development also includes new access arrangements from Trowbridge Road, along with pedestrian and cycle connections designed to link the site with nearby local services and facilities.
As part of the agreement, the developer will also make financial contributions towards local infrastructure, including healthcare, education provision, early years places and improvements to nearby roads and transport infrastructure.
The site sits close to a busy service area on the edge of the village and is bordered by major routes connecting Frome and Bath.
A further planning inquiry is expected to consider additional housing proposals on adjacent land, while other development plans in the wider area continue to be reviewed by the council.
A detailed planning application for the 35-home scheme is expected to be submitted later this year.