Oswestry shops project could be back on the cards

After almost two years of work, more than 70 per cent of businesses in Oswestry voted for it to become a Business Improvement District, securing £1.5 million funding.

Now councillors have said it could see the town's Smithfield development being brought back into the reckoning, which could see shops, restaurants and even a cinema being built.

It will also secure a bright future for the town's future developments, county councillor Paul Milner said.

The scheme means businesses within the BID area that have a rateable value of £12,000 or more will have to pay a 1.75 per cent levy on rates over the next five years, with the money going towards helping the town.

Councillor Milner believes with other projects ongoing such as the Innovation Park, near the Mile End roundabout and changes to make the Maesbury Road junction safer, it is an exciting time for Oswestry and an exciting time to be a business owner in the town.

Councillor Milner said: "People say nothing ever happens in Oswestry, but that isn't true because the BID is happening and things in Oswestry are happening.

"It is great news for everyone in Oswestry that BID was voted through by three quarters of the businesses, it shows the majority have really supported this.

"It is going to be fantastic not just for businesses who will benefit directly from it, but for people in the town and to enhance the town and enhance tourism in Oswestry.

"There is so much going on with the £9.3 million that has been awarded for road improvements, the innovation park, the safety measures at Maesbury Road, and also if something happens in the future with the Smithfield.

"All these projects together represent an exciting time for Oswestry, and it is an exciting time to be a business owner in Oswestry."

The town will officially become a BID town on April 1, and the £1.5 million along with any more money that can be levered in, will be used to help the economy of the town and attract people to visit, live, work and shop in Oswestry.

Ian Follington, chairman of the working group which coordinated the development of the BID proposal and business plan, thanked members who had given up their time to work on the proposals over the last 18 months.

Businesses will pay an annual levy and the pot of money will be ring fenced over the next five years, and will be invested in promoting and developing business in and around Oswestry.

Councillor Milner praised Mr Follington and the BID team for making the exciting project happen.

He added: "The work they have done has been fantastic, this project could potentially bring more jobs to Oswestry and the town has a really bright future."