Huge backlash forces U-turn over homes bid

Councillors in Church Stretton have performed a U-turn and withdrawn support for controversial plans to build almost 100 homes in the town after a huge backlash from residents.

Members of Church Stretton Town Council say that they cannot support any new properties earmarked for sites such as playing fields at Church Stretton School and green land at Snatchfields.

The decision comes after an extraordinary meeting on Tuesday, which was attended by more than 70 people.

The plans, which formed part of Shropshire Council's Site Allocations and Management of Development (SAMDev) plan, had been widely opposed by residents and more than 100 attended a public meeting in the town earlier in the summer.

Town councillors had initially suggested up to 350 extra homes would need to be built in Church Stretton between 2006 and 2026, and 203 have been built or have planning permission.

A further 57 are expected to be built through windfall development, and potential sites have been identified by Shropshire Council for the remaining 90 homes.

Town clerk Christine Harvey said: "The town council considered all representations made and having considered its earlier decision on the allocation of housing numbers between 2006 to 2026, rescinded its decision.

"Councillors were not prepared to agree to any increase to housing numbers in line with 203 built, or which have permission, until they receive more information on housing need and the data lacking. Furthermore, councillors did not agree to any of the proposed sites put forward by Shropshire Council at this time."

Councillors also proposed to follow the example of Shrewsbury Town Council in recommending setting up a working party of town and unitary councillors to evaluate public feedback on potential development sites.

Councillor Tom Beaumont, mayor of Church Stretton, said: "The town council felt that this was a positive way forward."