Plea to save historic Bridgnorth building is set for council debate after petition passes 1,000 signatures

The move comes after Huw Rees, a member of the public, was so concerned about the state of Bridgnorth's Grade II listed New Market Building at Postern Gate, Listley Street, that he launched a petition calling for action.

The e-petition set up on Shropshire Council's website had to attract 1,000 signatures for it to be debated by the authority's full council.

It has now passed that mark, with more than 1,100 people having signed, meaning a date will be set for it to be discussed.

Bridgnorth Town Council has also added its voice to the calls for action, with members voting to back the petition earlier this month.

The town centre building is a major landmark and Mr Rees' petition details the historical and architectural value of the premises.

The petition calls for 'restoration' of the New Market Buildings, saying they have "fallen into a dangerous state of disrepair". 

It also asked the council to consider a compulsory purchase order for the building if repairs are not made "within a reasonable timeframe".

It states: "The New Market Buildings are a significant landmark in Bridgnorth that hold particular historical and architectural value.

"The building is Grade II listed but has fallen into disrepair under the absentee owner who has left the building to crumble for over 10 years.

"Plans were drawn up to turn the building into a hotel, but this never came to fruition. Shropshire Council instructed the owner to make repairs and keep the exterior maintained to a high standard in 2018 but no significant work has been carried out.

"Masonry has been falling onto the pavement below, posing a significant safety risk. Repairs are needed urgently to save the building, but if the owner refuses or fails to engage, plans should be drawn up to Compulsory Purchase the building, potentially with the help of National Lottery funding or funding from elsewhere.

"The building could have many uses, with some suggesting it could be turned into a new library, food hall, theatre, or a mixed-use community hub."

Backing the petition earlier this month, Mayor of Bridgnorth Councillor Ian Wellings said: "The town dates back to the 10th century and has an enormous number of historical architectural buildings, which are elaborate and ornate in their design. The New Market Building is one of these buildings which needs to be saved from permanent disrepair and saved for future generations to enjoy.

"It is a great shame that an absent landlord has disregarded this building and allowed it to deteriorate over a number of years and we want to see action from Shropshire Council to stop this continuing." 

The petition is available at https://www.shropshire.gov.uk/committee-services/mgEPetitionDisplay.aspx?id=500000068.