Inquiry into new homes to be held in another town

The Selwood Garden Community includes new homes, community space and a primary school

Residents and a local MP have criticised a decision to hold a planning inquiry into 1,700 new homes in a town 12 miles away from the proposed development.

The application for the Selwood Garden Community in Frome, Somerset, will be heard by a planning inspector at the Shepton Mallet Hub in August.

Frome resident Ken McCall, who objects to the plans, said: "It's not convenient for the people of Frome as there is no railway station in Shepton Mallet and only a couple of buses."

Somerset Council, which has been asked to find a location for the inquiry, said: "The Shepton Mallet Hub is quite simply the best option we have in terms of accommodating the inquiry."

The plans for the Selwood Garden Community would see green fields near the southern edge of Frome turned into homes, commercial space and a primary school.

The application was called in by central government in February.

Anna Sabine, Frome and East Somerset MP (Lib Dem) said: "Choosing a venue miles away, with limited public transport and parking, puts up barriers to local participation.

"I understand that these inquiries are usually held in Shepton, so the council are just following precedent, but the decision to prioritise administrative convenience over public involvement is disheartening," she said.

Lib Dem MP Anna Sabine says the planning inquiry should be held in Frome

In a statement Somerset Council said: "The Government Inspector and team have very specific requirements in terms of a venue which we are asked to provide and confirm well in advance.

"We have to ensure adequate rooms are available, with the appropriate facilities and technology, and for the duration of the inquiry.

"Residents will be able to join online if they are not able to get to Shepton Mallet."