Further update regarding dangerous building on St Michael’s Street, Shrewsbury

Update: 14 June 2021: 8:00pm

Work to protect the public and neighbouring properties from a privately-owned house at risk of collapse in Shrewsbury, continues at pace.

Shropshire Council had taken urgent measures to protect the public from the property at 110 St Michael’s Street from what could be in imminent danger of collapse. The council is working with the owner to resolve the matter as quickly as possible. This may result in the demolition of the property.

The property comprises a large town house located within the Shrewsbury Conservation Area, which the Council understands was built as an integral part of the adjoining terrace in the 1850s.  Neither the building itself, or the adjoining terrace are designated as listed buildings.

The building has been assessed by both the owner’s and the council’s structural engineers and they both consider that its structural condition has deteriorated to the point where it could collapse at any time.  Whilst the council continues to consider all options with the owner, it may be that the ongoing risk to public safety that both the building itself and the road closure present, mean that demolition is the only option available.

Demolition of the building would take a number of days to organise due to the sheer complexity of the buildings construction and the need to safeguard both the public and other properties while work is undertaken.

Officers are currently liaising with specialists to put in place temporary but safe measures which would allow a controlled demolition.

Work undertaken so far includes:

• Fencing has been moved a further 2-3m away from building to prevent pedestrians using pavement and to protect of two Telecoms/broadband boxes.
• A new footpath has been constructed across a grass verge.
• Vehicular access to the business premises and residential properties has been maintained – and will be reviewed regularly.
• Boarding to the front of the property completed, with the remaining boarding works scheduled to be completed today.
• Site security remains on site 24/7 for the current time, at both front and rear access to stop anyone from accessing the property.
• Public notices on the current situation have been put up on site and around the local area.
• Residents in St. Michaels Street and adjacent flats continue to be updated on a regular basis.
• Housing team remain in contact with the tenants and continue to offer advice and support.
• Work undertaken to vacate and safely secure the neighbouring properties including disconnecting the gas supply

It is anticipated that the work will take up to 14 days to complete and a section of St Michael’s Street (A5191) between the Flaxmill roundabout to New Park Road will be closed to through traffic in this time.

Sultan Road and New Park Road, whilst remaining open, are likely to be very busy and drivers are being urged to avoid using these roads if possible.

Alternative routes for through traffic have been signposted via (out of town) Coton Hill and Ellesmere Rd and (into town) via Telford Way, Pritchard Way, Bage Way and Old Potts Way.

People visiting the town centre are also encouraged to use the park and ride or other alternative bus services.

There will still be access for anyone needing to get to their home or business along St Michael’s Street for the period of the closure.

To keep up to date with the latest news visit www.newsroom.shropshire.gov.uk or follow Shropshire Council on twitter and Facebook.

Further information

The council has taken immediate action as the building fronts on to one the main routes into Shrewsbury town centre and therefore poses a significant risk.

The property, which is not listed and had a number of rented rooms, has been evacuated and the residents have been put into emergency accommodation or staying with relatives.