A SHOP in the middle of Frome that has sat empty since 2017 could see a new lease of life. 

Plans have been submitted to change the use of the former Shoe Zone shop in the Market Place into a house of multiple occupancy (HMO). 

The planning documents states the HMO will offer accommodation “which may be more accessible to those on a lower income.” 

The plans would see the building comprise of 12 bedrooms, a communal kitchen dining area and communal living space as well as a communal bin store and bike storage. 

The floors above the former Shoe Zone, previously used for storage and office accommodation, would be split into two flats housing six people each. 

“It is well known that the rental market is difficult and becoming more expensive and limited for those on lower incomes,” the planning document said. 

“This HMO will offer 12 people the opportunity to live in the centre of Frome for a more affordable rent when compared to other forms of residential 22-23 Market Place, Frome, BA11 1AN 10 accommodation.”

Concerns over “cramming in” 12 bedrooms 

Concerns have been raised over the number of bedrooms in the limited space, with councillor Michael Dunk (Frome West) criticising the “cramming” in of the 12 bedrooms. 

“I am immediately struck by the cramming in of 12 ‘rooms’ in this HMO,” he said. 

“I suspect this is the way of making the most possible money from the rental income. 

“Assuming that the layout complies with fire regulations I am bound to comment that there is only one communal kitchen and that is on the first floor. 

“I don’t pretend to know what is normal in a large HMO such as this but this arrangement cannot be at all convenient to the residents of the second floor and attic.” 

Cllr Dunk also has concerns over the waste collection strategy as the plans would see five waste bins left out for collection “in a very prominent place in the town centre”. 

The plans would also see the retail unit retained on the ground floor with a new shopfront planned with the aim of encouraging a new tenant.  

To aid this, there would be the option of splitting the space into two units to increase the likelihood of finding a tenant. 

To view and comment on the plans, search 2024/1505/FUL on somerset.gov.uk