Mixed opinions on future for Shrewsbury's Dana prison

For the past year HMP Shrewsbury has stood empty, although it is hoped townsfolk will soon learn more about what is to become of the former jail.

Commercial property agent GVA , the company managing the potentially multi-million pound sale, is due to meet Ministry of Justice officials today to put forward the various proposals they have received from interested parties.

They include plans from county businessman Martin Monahan, who runs the nearby Buttermarket nightclub and The Peach Tree restaurant and C21 night spot in Abbey Foregate.

Although keeping his ideas under wraps, he confirmed that if successful he would be able to help out local businesses and give a boost to the economy.

But people in Shrewsbury have their own ideas over what should happen with the former prison – which had the reputation of being one of the most crowded in the country.

Ivan Downes said: "There are two choices as to what to do with the Dana.

"Some say a hotel but I say, turn it into affordable flats as that would be, in my opinion, the best option.

"This town needs something like that for young people," said the groundworker, who lives in Minsterley.

Beverley Davies, of Herongate, suggested making the prison into a place where people could stay voluntarily. "A hotel would be a good idea as there are enough rooms," said the 46-year-old, of Herongate.

"It would be a real shame not to do anything with it. Perhaps, if not a hotel then the sixth form college could make use of the space," said the Marks & Spencer employee.

Shrewsbury resident Liz Bowlby, 85, suggested taking inspiration from other former jails.

"The prison in Oxford was turned into a wonderful hotel by the Malmaison chain so perhaps that is the route we should take," she said.

Mrs Bowlby also said planners looking at creating a hotel on the site of Shrewsbury's Quarry pool should think again.

"It is certainly a better site for a hotel than the swimming pool. It is a very historic site and it should be seen by more people."

Florist Daniel Bebbington, 23, who works at Lipstick & Gin in the Pride Hill Shopping Centre, said: "I find it exciting that there is interest in the redevelopment of it."

Jeweller Brian Evans, of Oswestry, agreed, saying he said he didn't want to see the building lying empty for much longer.

"As long as it is used, I don't mind what happens really with it, said the 61-year-old, who works for national chain F Hinds. "Perhaps an Elvis-themed nightclub called Jailhouse Rock, that would be good wouldn't it?"