Northampton-based ‘strategic land promoter', Barwood Land, recently announced a proposal for an extensive new development in the countryside north of Frome on Oldford Hill, comprising 320 new-build houses, and the additional unspecified development of a large area of agricultural land (currently fields used for growing crops, that also provide much-needed habitat for wildlife) between Gypsy Lane and the rural hamlet of Oldford to the north of Frome. They have stated that their intention is to apply for planning permission in May.

Why does it matter?

• Development of this land would irreparably damage the rural character of the countryside on the north approach to Frome.
• Will disrupt and endanger wildlife, native plants, and the natural environment. 
• Intensive building leads to a further increased risk of flooding, which is already becoming more frequent in the area each year.
• Closing Gypsy Lane to vehicles and adding new intersections on Oldford Hill as planned will cause a massive increase in traffic (and congestion) on the B3090 and throughout surrounding areas. Barwood themselves have stated that the development would result in approximately 2,000 additional vehicle journeys per day!
• Frome’s already stretched local infrastructure is unlikely to be able to support such a substantial population increase. 
  
  

Barwood’s proposal does not align with local planning policies, and is located outside the area allocated for development, so it is unclear why this apparently unsuitable site has been selected. 

We are also very concerned about the cumulative effects of so much development on the outskirts of Frome, and we want to make sure the council evaluates Barwood’s application in the greater context, because it does not stand alone in the effects it will have on the community and the environment. 

A group of local residents has been organised to fight the development, but we need your help!

Please record your opposition to the development by signing our petition, and help us show the council that the community does not want this!

https://www.oldfordfrome.org