Dirty underpass to earn stripes

This picture shows how one of the gateways to Shrewsbury could be transformed under plans to regenerate the northern part of the town.

The railway underpass in Castle Foregate is set to get a radical makeover as council officers look to make the entrance to the town more attractive.

It could see digital images being projected on to the walls, which are considered at present to be dirty and unsightly. The move is part of the Shrewsbury Northern Corridor Masterplan and Regeneration Strategy, which was completed in January.

It earmarks four zones in the town for regeneration.

These are: Castle Foregate Urban Village, Ditherington Road from the Flax Mill to Heathgates Island, Whitchurch Road northwards to Harlescott Lane, and the Northern Enterprise Quarter.

The plan aims to create a "sustainable, vibrant and distinct corridor, capable of fulfilling its role as the prime northern gateway to Shrewsbury".

Borough council planning manager Geoff Harrison outlined the idea at a meeting in Castlefields last week.

He said the digital wall display would "brighten up" the area under the railway bridge, which he said was currently dark and gave a bad impression to visitors.

But is this unusual art scheme the best way to improve one of Shrewsbury's most unsightly gateways?

What do you think of the idea? Let us know by calling the newsroom on (01952) 242424 or e-mailing newsroom@shropshirestar.co.uk