Town regeneration partnership plans

The news comes after the borough council announced it was severing its ties with the current Oakengates Regeneration Partnership.

Following concerns raised by residents and traders, the borough council said it would no longer provide funds or support for the group.

Councillor Sean Kelly, ward member for Oakengates, said: "For some time, there have been concerns about the effectiveness of the Oakengates Regeneration Partnership.

"In ending its relationship with the current partnership, the council is responding to concerns expressed by local residents and traders.

"Oakengates Town Council shares these concerns and voted to suspend its association with the existing partnership back in June.

"The opportunity now arises to form a new partnership and it is imperative we move quickly to progress the regeneration of Oakengates."

The partnership had 25 members made up of councillors, traders, residents and church members .

Councillor Eric Carter, Telford & Wrekin Council cabinet member for regeneration, said: "Oakengates Regeneration Partnership is not fulfilling the vital functions of partnership working and as a result the council does not have an effective partner with whom the regeneration of Oakengates can be progressed.

"This situation places the residents of Oakengates at a disadvantage, unable to benefit from elements of the Borough Towns Initiative programme."

John Ellis, Oakengates Regeneration Partnership chairman, said: "We are disappointed over the nature of this and the input the council has given for some time. The council could have been more involved, but seemed not to be interested."

By Jason Lavan