Bayston Hill town idea scrapped after outcry

Controversial plans to transform one of Shropshire's largest villages into a town have been scrapped following a list of concerns from angry residents.

Bayston Hill, on the outskirts of Shrewsbury, had been lined up for the change in status, which would have involved the creation of a town council and the appointment of a mayor and deputy mayor.

But the idea caused controversy and at a heated meeting of Bayston Hill's Parish Council held earlier this month about 60 angry residents called for the plans to be thrown out.

Following the debate, parish councillors asked for a report to be commissioned to outline the benefits of gaining town status.

But in a statement, parish council chairman, James Moraghen today said the findings of the report had suggested that the town status had limited advantages.

He added that the idea would be shelved at the next meeting of the full parish council on May 14.

He said: "The fuller report we have finally received suggests that there are no practical and financial advantages.

"I have now taken soundings with fellow councillors. They agree with my decision to propose to the next full council not to progress the matter further."

The proposals generated a massive response.

At the packed parish council meeting on March 5 at Bayston Hill Memorial Hall dozens of residents spoke out.

Bob Preece, a resident for 60 years, said:"If you are going to call Bayston Hill a town then I would call Church Stretton a city. If Bayston Hill becomes a town then the precept will go up."

Fellow resident Jackie Crick added: "This idea should be thrown out, nobody wants it and I want to know who put it on the agenda in the first place."

Councillor Moraghen said he hoped the issue had persuaded residents to take an active role in the council.

See also:

• Residents angry over Bayston Hill town plan

• Bayston Hill to debate becoming a town