Homes set for approval near problem level crossing in Shropshire

Approval for the homes on a site between Aston Road and Church Lane in Wem could be given subject to the applicant agreeing to make a contribution towards installing a footbridge at the crossing.

The rail crossing has been known to shut for up to three hours, causing tailbacks, and residents have highlighted the dangers as people try to cross with the barriers closing.

The original application was for 75 homes, but during consultation it was reduced to 50 and the access onto Church Lane was removed.

The new plans have been recommended for approval ahead of a meeting of Shropshire Council's north planning committee on Tuesday.

Residents and councillors have raised concerns that the area will not be able to accommodate extra traffic, that the development is "out of place" and could increase the risk of flooding.

Network Rail also objected amid fears that, with more people using the crossing, it could increase the number of accidents.

However, the company has now removed its objection and suggested should the application go-ahead, the applicant would need to part fund a footbridge at Wem station.

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A spokesman for Network Rail said: "It is noted that the responsibility is not solely down to this development and we would be seeking further contributions from other developers who have planning applications to develop further on the up side of the railway at Wem."

A total of 102 letters of objection and a petition containing 78 signatures have been received by Shropshire Council. Wem Civic Society has also objected on the grounds that a footbridge would not provide immediate assistance and is of no use to vehicles.

Commenting on Shropshire Council's website, resident Roger Ashton said: "This application has potential for massive traffic snarl-ups. It is a nightmare now for regular users. Worse still is the loss of lovely greenbelt between Wem and Aston."

Pauline Dee, Shropshire councillor for Wem, said: "I just find it confusing that Network Rail would put in an objection and were concerned about safety and now they have gone back on what they said to us.

"I am concerned about the traffic that could build up. The level crossing sometimes goes down for hours and then traffic quickly builds up throughout the town. I am very concerned about the safety of the public and future residents.."

The plans will be discussed at the Shirehall in Shrewsbury on Tuesday at 2pm.