Millions may kickstart projects

Millions of pounds could be released by councils across Shropshire in a bid to get work started on derelict development sites across the county.

The move could see up to £24 million being spent by Shrewsbury and Atcham Borough Council alone after developers said they could no longer proceed with sites in the county town.

Councillor Peter Nutting, leader of SABC, will next week propose a motion that councils across Shropshire use capital receipts to buy the sites and get things moving.

The motion, which has been signed by 11 councillors, says: "That in view of the present economic climate and the long term aim of the new Shropshire Council to provide more social and affordable homes the council considers the purchase of any undeveloped sites within Shropshire to secure the best possible options for future housing delivery.

"The Implementation Executive is to be asked to confirm its support for such a move which could be funded from the capital receipts of Shrewsbury and Atcham Borough Council and other district councils."

Sites in Shrewsbury which would need capital investment include the old MEB site on Ditherington Road.

Developers Persimmon halted construction work on the 188-home project in May because of problems in the mortgage market. It says a start date is still under review until the economy recovers.

Other sites could include the Copthorne South hospital site and land at Arlington Way, which also currently lie dormant.

Andy Goldsmith, borough assistant council manager, said discussions were at a very early stage but that the "ideal" suggestion would be to release some of the £24 million the authority has to inject into the sites and kickstart development.