Further probe needed on land 'contamination' fears near Shrewsbury

Building the homes on the site off Ellesmere Road in Shrewsbury could also add to traffic and congestion problems in the area - particularly during the morning and evening rush hour - according to councillors.

The plans have been put on hold by members of Shropshire Council's central planning committee until further investigation is carried out. They said they were not satisfied with claims that there is no issue of contamination on the site after a site visit.

The plans for the homes have attracted dozens of objections from residents, while there have also been claims that locals have not been fully consulted over the proposals.

The issue was discussed at a meeting of the committee on Thursday ((MAY 29).

Councillor Dean Carroll, who represents the Bagley ward, said: "I cannot accept that this development will not have severe and catastrophic effect on traffic movements in an area that already has traffic issues.

"There is a problem with traffic on Chester Street and and on Ellesmere Road and this development will make it considerably worse."

Councillor Miles Kenny, who represents Underdale, also spoke out angrily about the site in what he believes to be a "constricted area".

He said: "This is one of the most, narrow places in the whole of Shrewsbury.

"The tailbacks are already awful at rush hour and the site design is very unimaginative.

"We have this five-year land supply where we cannot refuse but I really do object to this.

Councillor Peter Nutting, for Copthorne, also raised concerns about designated green space on the site lending itself to more development in the future but said in light of housing policy "the game has been played."

Councillor Tudor Bebb, who represnets Minsterley, pointed out the unexplained reason for an air vent on site, which he said he believed did not add up with reports of no contamination.

He said: "I've read all that but why does that air vent have to be there if that is the case, why is it necessary?"

"Is there gas on site, it could hide a multitude of sins."

His concerns were echoed by Councillor Kevin Pardy, who represents Sundorne, who said safety had to be a number one priority.

He said: "The safety of the people who are going to buy these homes is in our hands.

"What if in 10 years time something is discovered? We would be held responsible for allowing this to be built."