Sam Riley

Shropshire Council is reviewing a listed building consent application for 4–5 King Street in Ludlow, where owners seek approval to replace several street-facing windows as part of early efforts to improve the vacant property's condition. The council is expecting more extensive renovation and conversion proposals and plans continued engagement with the owners to ensure alignment with heritage requirements and conservation area standards. The application will be evaluated according to statutory duties and planning policy.

Road closures will take place across several streets in Leominster beginning July 27 as Herefordshire Council carries out remedial public realm works. Each street will close for a specified period, with dates posted locally in advance. Diversion routes will be signposted, and although the order remains valid for up to 18 months, the work is expected to finish by August 17. The council has provided contact information for residents seeking further details.

Shropshire’s MPs responded to concerns from the Shropshire Chamber of Commerce about proposed steel tariff changes that could disrupt supply chains and raise costs for local industries. Stuart Anderson said he had escalated the issue in Parliament, warning of a significant domestic steel shortfall. Helen Morgan urged the Government to delay or taper the tariffs to prevent serious harm to manufacturers, while Julia Buckley noted a recent reduction in the planned quota cut. The chamber welcomed the MPs’ engagement as the issue continues to be raised nationally.

A new Shropshire Chamber of Commerce platform, the Finance Finder, was presented at the Summer Funding Summit in Shrewsbury to support businesses in identifying loans, grants, equity and commercial funding. Jenny Pearson highlighted the tool’s ability to streamline the funding process, and the event brought together regional business organisations, lenders and advisers to emphasise the importance of clear routes to financial support.