Lasers shine over Telford as 50th anniversary celebrations begin
Telford today launched its 50th anniversary year with a battle cry from its leader, who declared: “The future has never been brighter.”
Shaun Davies says celebrations throughout the year will put the town on the map.
He said: “We’re going to have a year of really showcasing what’s brilliant about Telford as a new town. It is a fantastic opportunity.”
Lasers from across the borough were last night being shone towards the Wrekin to mark the start of 12 months of events.
The seven converging lights are designed to link up the borough and act as a springboard for the year-long celebration.
However on New Year's Day not everyone in Telford was able to spot the lasers which have been installed in High Ercall, Tibberton, Newport, Lilleshall, St Georges, The Nedge and Abraham Darby Academy.
The green beams will be shining again from 5pm until 10pm on Tuesday, but the council warned location, weather and ambient lighting could all impact visibility.
The year is also set to be a period of change, with Telford Shopping Centre unveiling its Northern Quarter and Fashion Quarter, Southwater expanding and new business investment including a stepping up of production at Muller and work starting on Newport Innovation Park, which will cost £9.3 million and create 950 jobs.
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Councillor Davies said: “This is all about communities and businesses. It’s a good opportunity for us to talk about the town for all the right reasons.
"I think Telford 50 is really important is really important for our businesses because people will come from outside the area to see what we’re doing.
“It’s an opportunity for local residents to support local trade and a chance to say show the rest of the Midlands just how great Telford is.
"It is the fastest growing town in the region – an economic town which is booming and this will be a good opportunity for people to take a look at Telford and have a positive view of what we’re doing.
The Place in the Park events in August will see Oakengates Theatre move to the Town Park and the likes of Al Murray, Dara O’Brien and Boyzlife performing the crowds.
"The annual Carnival of Giants in July is becoming a Carnival of Telford Giants to mark the anniversary.
Councillor Davies said: “The whole idea is about getting people to talk and bring people and places together. We are proudly made up of a number of areas, Madeley Dawley Brookside, Wellington.
"The whole idea of the laser show is from different areas, the Wrekin brings people together in Telford. It’s a landmark most people can see. It’s a talking point of the town and very symbolically bringing out communities and places together.
“I don’t think I’ll still be around but in 50 years as a council, we will ensure and try and build on the successes.
"We stand on shoulders of many great people who put forward their ideas and time and effort getting to where we are.
"If you look at some of the things we’re doing, we are showing the rest of the region how to perform. Look at the number of houses we’re building and that’s a big confident boost.
"Look at two indicators – are people wanting to live here? Yes. Are businesses wanting to come here? Yes. That is a big indicator of success.
“It’s an opportunity for the rest of the public sector to mark how special Telford is.”
Lucy Allan, Telford’s MP, said: “2017 was a great year for Telford and 2018 will be even better. There will be more skilled jobs, more outstanding schools, investment in our hospital and celebrating Telford’s 50th.”
