Revised plans submitted for Shrewsbury's Dana Prison site
The developer behind the transformation of Shrewsbury's Dana Prison has submitted revised plans for the scheme.
Trevor Osborne consulted local councillors and residents living in the Castlefields area of the town earlier this year and, it appears, he has taken their concerns on board.
Under new plans there will be increased parking and better traffic routes.
Councillor Alan Mosley, who represents the Castlefields ward and is leader of Shrewsbury Town Council, held lengthy discussions with Mr Osborne over his proposals for the prison site which initially had little parking provision, a walled garden, student accommodation, residential spaces, a gymnasium and retail outlet.
But Councillor Mosley, representing those living in his ward, voiced concerns about the affect the lack of sufficient parking and poor access would have on the area.
He was also concerned about the "over development" of the site.
Mr Mosley said: "This significantly changed application appears to address a number of the objections to the original plans which were expressed by local residents and which I strongly supported. Those objections were, of course, confirmed by the planning committee who refused permission.
"Though a clear majority of local people saw value in developing the site there were concerns that the plans would lead to over development and great harm to the neighbourhood due to traffic and parking problems.
"Now, Mr Osbourne has reduced the variety of uses planned for the site, increased the residential elements and seeks to contain predicted parking demands to the site itself, including the Old Lancastrian building. It is also good to see that open areas, landscaping and public amenity are maintained.
"These and other changes seem to represent good progress though there are some issues which require further discussion, not least restriction on car usage by those who may live in the proposed student accommodation.
"I hope that the plans can now provide a way forward for a scheme that enhances this very important heritage site, with attractive facilities and serving as a catalyst for regeneration.
"I am consulting with residents and hope to hold a public meeting in the near future.
"I am very pleased that the views raised by residents and others have been taken in to account.
"I am pleased that Mr Osborne has responded positively to the strength of feelings from local residents and from myself in regard to the previous application."
In a design and access statement, the ground floor of the new build adjacent to the Old Lancastrian School could provide 13 spaces for residents.
The ground floor of the largest new building within the prison site could provide 28 spaces. Another 50 surface spaces can be provided around the site of which up to 13 will be short stay and visitor parking. In total up to 91 spaces could be accommodated on the site with 78 being allocated to the 78 residential units.
Openings would be made in the prison walls to allow pedestrians, cyclists and cars access to the nearby roads.
There would also be a number of courtyards within the site along with a main courtyard at the entrance next to the Governor's house, which would be turned in to private residential apartments.
