Scheme to transform old Shrewsbury hospital into homes is supported

Plans for the former Shelton Hospital on Somerby Drive in Shrewsbury could see the building converted into 158 apartments and houses, as well as 78 homes on the land.

A decision was deferred by the central planning committee at a meeting in December to await revised plans after Sport England objected to the proposal.

The sporting organisation said the plans to build on part of the existing football pitch would not be acceptable. But since developers revised the plan to ensure no reduction of sporting facilities, the scheme could soon be under way.

Planning officers have now recommended Shropshire Council gives permission at its meeting of the central planning committee next Thursday.

And, as an addition to the proposal, the bowling club will also be provided with a larger and more robust clubhouse with dedicated toilets.

The revised plans lead to the loss of four family homes as part of the scheme but have seen Sport England withdraw its objection.

But residents of Racecourse Lane have objected to the plans because of the "overbearing" number of homes, and the impact on the local community.

The Residents Association said in a statement: "The development will have a detrimental impact on the health and well being of the local community, it will change the scenery and setting of the listed building and result in the loss of open space."

Concerns have also been raised about the fate of one of the county's oldest cricket pitches nearby.

Officials of Shelton Cricket Club, which has been going for more than 100 years, said the boundary ropes are too close to the proposed new homes and flying cricket balls will be a threat to both properties and residents.