Former pub near Shrewsbury to be turned into homes

WTB Properties Ltd was granted a change of use for the Bridge Inn, Dorrington, to be turned into two homes.

Shropshire Council's central planning committee gave the plan the green light at its meeting in Shirehall last week.

The Bridge Inn is currently closed, though was used as a pub and restaurant until 2015, and for four months in 2016.

The pub has manager’s accommodation on the first floor and a single storey conservatory/restaurant area to the side.

Condover Parish Council has objected to the plan and members said they would prefer it to stay as a pub.

Councillors said there have recently been a number of pub closures along the A49 and that the Bridge Inn should be developed to include a restaurant and possibly a campsite, supporting the local economy.

Frank Whitley, the council's case officer dealing with the application, said that according to supporting statements the Bridge Inn is not considered to be viable as a pub/restaurant.

Councillor Kevin Pardy said: "If you travel around Shropshire you see many pubs that have been boarded up and are deteriorating.

"I don't think the objectors would want that to happen but it's a reality that could happen.

"I would hate to see that pub dilapidated in that way.

"We noticed this morning there was flooding around the back, I'd like to move this application to accept it."

Land to the back of the site was approved in 1993 for use as a camping and caravan site. A toilet and shower block was approved in 1996.

The camping and caravan site will continue to be accessed through the site.

The committee approved the plans.