Majority ‘still concerned’ about Bridgnorth shops development
The majority of Bridgnorth councillors are “still very concerned” about the Old Smithfield development, despite it being called in by the Government, according to the town’s mayor.
The application for five retail units on the Old Smithfield car park will be determined by a Government-appointed inspector instead of being decided by local councillors.
Bridgnorth Town Council agreed at its meeting on Tuesday to reiterate concerns raised previously and object to the plans which were passed by Shropshire Council.
Mayor Ron Whittle said: “The majority of town councillors are very concerned about the development and have reaffirmed their opposition to it.
“We’re going to monitor what is happening in case we need to take any additional action.
“We may do so as it develops, we felt it was better to hold back.
“The council’s decision was not unanimous, as with the public, a number of people think it should go ahead.”
The town council previously recommended refusal on the grounds of the loss of car parking and that more work needed to be done to assess the impact the development would have on the existing shopping centre.
Bridgnorth Chamber of Commerce led a campaign against the development, leading demonstrations and starting a petition that gained more than 6,000 signatures.
The shop development was approved by Shropshire Council planners in March after councillors were “minded to refuse” it in January.
The developer said the review may lead to delays but he remains “confident” that it will deliver a “fantastic development” for the town.
