Locals and DFLs’ share a fragile harmony in Frome

Two years ago, as many people moved in from London, the Somerset town declared a housing crisis. Today, Alex Ross speaks to a community determined to tackle the problem

- Alex Ross

With its medieval streets, artisan shops and good schools, it’s hardly a surprise the Somerset town of Frome regularly tops lists on the most desirable places to live.

Inside its charming maze of narrow roads is the thriving Westway independent cinema. Close to the Jenson Button Bridge, a tribute to a home-grown Formula One star, is the Cheese and Grain music venue where Paul McCartney and Foo Fighters have played secret gigs ahead of Glastonbury shows.

The town’s cornerstone is the steep cobbled street of picture postcard Catherine Hill, where more than a dozen independent shops do a thriving business selling vintage clothing, jewellery and antiques alongside wine and cocktails bars.

As we visit, in the midst of the town’s Kindness Festival, there are more than 20 volunteers clearing rubbish and planting flowers around the historic market cross as part of the Great British Spring Clean. A rock choir show, social history walk and a “grief disco” are all planned ahead of the festival’s close on Saturday night.

Just over an hour-and-a-half from London on the train, it’s clear why Frome, once known for its wool and cloth industry, has become an escape for families from the city lured by its period homes, independent spirit and surrounding countryside.

But the influx of DFLs (down from Londons) or “blow-ins”, prompted by a Covid pandemic exodus of city dwellers, has brought challenges, with demand for housing sending prices spiralling in a town with a 29,000 population at the last Census.

Average monthly rents rose from £1,343 in 2020 to £1,739 in 2023, according to town-based estate agents Rivendell Estates. The situation was reflected in a recent survey that found housing and rent affordability was the second biggest challenge for residents, beaten only by the cost of living.