Wem town square decision due next month

Controversial proposals to create a new community space in Wem could be decided next month, a meeting heard.

The scheme involving land at the lorry park between the Co-op and White Lion pub has been in the pipeline since about 2003 and a plan for the venture was submitted to Shropshire Council last year.

It's claimed the project could give Wem a new venue for outdoor events such as car boot sales and farmers' markets.

Last night's meeting of Wem Town Council heard that the long-awaited decision on the project is now expected to be confirmed by the unitary council at the end of February.

Proposals have been met with mixed reaction from residents with some claiming it will help transform the town while others have raised fears shops in the High Street could close as a result.

Speaking at last night's meeting, Shropshire and town councillor Chris Mellings, said: "We will know one way or another on Wem town square by the middle of February with confirmation expected at the end of February."