Packsaddle Fields, off Packsaddle Way in northern Frome is a cherished and accessible natural green space for our community, and has been for decades since the area was earmarked for a school which was never built. 

Now owned by Somerset Council, access is provided by a public right of way within the northern boundary and a permissive path through the fields.

This is more than just a patch of land - the fields are one of the few large accessible open spaces left in our area, and have become a place for families, children, dog walkers and nature lovers to take a break from urban life. As such they are vital for both physical and mental well-being in the community, and were designated as an Asset of Community Value because of this.

The site is not allocated for any development in the current Local Plan and is outside the Frome settlement boundary. LiveWest did a backroom deal with the former Somerset County Council in 2022 to pursue a housing development here, but their planning application for 74 houses (2023/0864/FUL) has been refused twice last year - first by Somerset Council's planning committee, then by the Planning Inspector, because of the harm it would cause to the recreational enjoyment of the open space by residents. The People for Packsaddle group’s campaigning has been instrumental in this.  

Nevertheless, I understand LiveWest still want to submit another planning application to develop the site in future, and are now taking Somerset Council to court to make the council fence off the fields, because they think it will help them get planning permission next time. 

This would be very harmful to the community, as it would close off a recreational space enjoyed and valued by so many.

So we call upon LiveWest and Somerset Council to reconsider, and Stop the fencing of Packsaddle Fields. 

Please sign this petition to show your support in keeping Packsaddle Fields in Frome open for everyone to enjoy.