Shops can extend into Shrewsbury town square

The owners of Princess House can now move the frontages of several shops forward by five feet. Opponents say major events including the Christmas lights switch-on could be under threat. Town council leader Peter Nutting is among the objectors.

He said today he was 'really surprised and disappointed'.

James Tibbles, development manager for building owners Rockspring, said work would start 'as soon as we can do it'.

But campaigners who had opposed the move described the decision as a 'bitter blow'.

A stopping-up order for the affected stretch of pavement was granted on Wednesday by the Department for Transport after Inspector John Wilde recommended the go-ahead. Shropshire Council granted permission last year, but more than 70 objections were sent to the Government department in a bid to stop the scheme.

Campaigners including Shrewsbury Town Council, Shop in the Loop and Civic Society claimed it would mean the end of cafe culture in the Square and hit events such as the Christmas lights switch-on.

Rockspring wants to make the shops more visible.

Mr Wilde's report admitted the work would result in less public space in the Square, but said it would have a minimal effect on what goes on there. Mr Tibbles said preparations could now begin for the work to start.

"It will be as soon as we can do it," he said. "I don't think we have got a problem with the local population of Shrewsbury."

Peter Nutting, leader of Shrewsbury Town Council, said: "I am really surprised and disappointed at the inspector's decision and think this will have an adverse effect on use of the Square.

However, Shrewsbury Town Council and Shropshire Council will be working together to ensure the Square remains as an important part of the cultural life of Shrewsbury."