MAYDAY Saxonvale has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering the long-awaited regeneration of the Saxonvale site in Frome, following renewed public concern over delays and ongoing negotiations with Somerset Council.

The group selected to regenerate the Saxonvale site in Frome town centre says it remains “fully committed” to the project and intends to begin work as soon as humanly possible — nearly six months after Somerset Council’s executive agreed to the sale of the long-vacant brownfield site.

Mayday Saxonvale has responded that such delays were “not unusual” for a project of this scale, and “are actively engaging with alternative funding routes” to drive things forward.

The proposal for the Saxonvale site includes 263 new homes, with at least 30 per cent designated as affordable housing and an ambition to reach up to 50 per cent. Plans also feature more than 10,000 square metres of commercial and community space, including an enterprise centre and a “community kitchen.” A cultural centre is proposed within the historic western warehouse, alongside new public open spaces, a riverside park, and a children’s play area.

The scheme also includes improved cycle links to Vicarage Street, the realignment of the A362 Garsdale roundabout, and a £246,000 contribution toward upgrades at the Gorehedge junction. Additionally, it provides for a hotel and spa, a lido, and nearly £828,000 in funding for improvements to local schools.

A spokesperson said: “We fully understand and share the frustration surrounding ongoing delays to the Saxonvale site purchase.

“We recognise the people of Frome have waited a long time to see this vital site brought back into meaningful use, and we remain fully committed to ensuring that happens.

“There have been unexpected delays to a larger funding programme, which includes support for our prospective joint venture partner, Kiss House, and would, in turn, provide investment in Saxonvale.

“While delays of this kind are not unusual for funding programmes of this scale, we are actively engaging with alternative funding routes to ensure we minimise any further delay. This strategy has been shared in full with Somerset Council.

“We remain fully committed to delivering a development that meets the high aspirations of Frome’s community: one that puts people, sustainability, and social value at its core.”

Councillor Mike Rigby, portfolio holder for economic development, planning and assets, stated on July 16 that discussions with Mayday Saxonvale were ongoing to finalise the sale and ensure the site would deliver the best possible scheme for the people of Frome.

He said: “We remain committed to ensuring that public land is used responsibly and in a way which delivers long-term value for the community.

“Mayday’s innovative proposal and delivery model seeks to recycle profit back into the development, and was seen as a unique opportunity for the redevelopment of the site, adding value to the community which would not be achieved with a traditional development.

“The offer still represents the best consideration for the council, its taxpayers and the residents of Frome – and because of this, we continue dialogue with Mayday in anticipation that the sale can be completed.”