World famous music venue expansion set to make Somerset town a creative hotspot

Frome’s creative scene is on the brink of an exciting new chapter as the Cheese and Grain is set for a transformative expansion that promises to elevate its impact locally and beyond.

Councillor Sara Butler, also a trustee of the Cheese and Grain, highlighted the project's significance at the most recent Frome town council meeting.

“Some of you probably know that we are looking at expanding the building,” she said. “The Bert Jansch Studio is attracting talent from all over the world, and we need to make the space more accessible to the local community, particularly for young people interested in music production, engineering, and creative industries.”

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Cllr Butler emphasised that Frome is gaining recognition as a music industry hotspot in the South West. “Our engineers are in demand, even in New York. We need to build on this reputation and ensure that the Cheese and Grain continues to thrive,” she said.

The expansion project hinges on securing adequate funding. Cllr Butler noted that the Cheese and Grain is applying for an Arts Council grant of £1.6 million, following uncertainties around the success of a government levelling-up fund application.

“One of the major obstacles is the length of the lease,” she explained. “At only 15 years, it’s not long enough for major funders to consider investing. Somerset Council has, in principle, agreed to extend the lease by 30 years, which will improve our chances of securing funding.”

Economic development and regeneration manager Peter Wheelhouse confirmed the importance of the lease extension. “Being the landlord, Frome Town Council holds the lease until 2096. It makes sense for the planning application to be submitted by the town council,” he said.

With the lease extension likely to proceed, Frome Town Council will submit the planning application for the project. “This approach helps mitigate VAT costs and other financial implications,” Cllr Butler said. “Assuming Somerset Council finalises the lease, it will just be a matter of securing funding and moving forward with the build.”

Mr Wheelhouse elaborated on the scope of the expansion, explaining that the new building will serve as a training centre for the music industry, provide more storage and logistical space, and expand apprenticeship programs at the venue. “We refer to this as an ‘event tec’—a venue and technical centre that will support Frome’s growing creative sector,” he said.

Councillor Philip Campagna praised the project and its potential impact on education. “Frome College has one of the best music departments in Somerset, having reintroduced A-level music and associated technologies. This expansion will help more young people pursue careers in sound recording and production,” he said.

Councillor Fiona Barrows brought up the question of Cheese and Grain’s long-term ownership structure. “It has been beneficial that Somerset Council is the freeholder, as it allows them to apply for government funding directly,” she said. “However, we must continue discussions about the best strategic approach.”

Mr Wheelhouse acknowledged that government funding rules require applications to be submitted by Somerset Council. “We have lobbied for changes to allow town and parish councils to apply directly,” he said. “A recent House of Lords report recommended this, but the government has yet to take action.

“We will explore every possible opportunity to secure capital funding and ensure this project becomes a reality.”