Paul Rogers

A Shropshire Council planning committee is being advised to approve a 128-home development in Shawbury despite 43 objections. Residents and the parish council cite the narrow access road, pressure on schools and medical facilities, and flood risk, while the council says the scheme would provide 13 affordable homes, accessible bungalows, developer contributions to healthcare and education, and potential drainage improvements. The recommendation is supported by the council’s current housing supply position and the policy presumption in favour of new homes.

A petition launched by Ruyton-XI-Towns parish councillor Tamarin Bibow calls on Shropshire Council to reduce or review parking charges in Shrewsbury, citing concerns that high fees deter shoppers and drive people to Telford. Charges reach £3.60 an hour on town-centre streets and £2.40 at Raven Meadows, while shoppers describe the costs as excessive and potentially damaging to local businesses. The council says increases were needed because government transport funding has not kept pace with costs and confirms that a new review of car-park and on-street charges will be presented to its cabinet in September.

Shropshire Council plans to withdraw the 745 bus service linking several rural towns due to high subsidies and low passenger numbers, prompting concerns about isolation among Clun residents who rely on the route for shopping and social contact. More than 100 people have signed a petition opposing the cut, arguing the loss would disproportionately affect rural communities. Local officials cite rising costs and low usage, while residents question the fairness of reducing services in their area.

The National Trust has applied to convert Long Mynd House in Carding Mill Valley from a residential property into an indoor activity and educational space. The plans aim to provide room for school groups and community visitors while reducing the impact on nearby residents by moving activities indoors. Usage would be limited to groups of up to 50 people during school hours and occasional weekends, with restrictions on outdoor access to protect privacy and reduce noise.

A report concludes that Shrewsbury’s floating bus stop, criticised for safety concerns, will remain in place because relocation is considered unviable. Shropshire Council is assessing potential modifications and associated costs, which will be reviewed by its overview and scrutiny committee. The stop’s buffer zone was found to be significantly narrower than government guidance, prompting halted bus services and criticism from disability advocates. Emergency services previously faced delays due to the new road layout, leading the council to permit fire engines to use the adjacent cycle lane.