New gate opens at Monkmoor Recreation Ground in Shrewsbury
News from our partners, Shropshire Towns and Rural Housing
Shropshire Towns and Rural Housing (STAR Housing) has officially opened a new pedestrian entrance to Monkmoor Recreation Ground, improving safety and accessibility for families and wheelchair users.
The new gate was unveiled on Wednesday 5 November [2025] by the Mayor of Shrewsbury, Councillor Alex Wagner, alongside Shropshire Councillor David Vasmer, Shrewsbury Town Council’s Ian Thorpe, and STAR Housing’s Managing Director Harpreet Rayet.
They were also joined by staff past and present from the recreation ground, community representatives, new residents and the STAR Housing development team. The entrance was created following suggestions from local partners to improve access for the community.
The entrance forms part of the School Grove development, which brings thirteen energy-efficient homes to Shrewsbury, including six one-bedroom apartments and seven two-bedroom houses. Four properties have been allocated for supported living through Shropshire Council’s social care team, helping adults with additional needs and care leavers live independently.
Emma Vooth new resident at the development, shared her experience of moving into School Grove:
“It’s been amazing – it’s given me independence and my dignity back to live independently. It’s already been life-changing.”
(Left to Right) Shropshire Councillor David Vasmer; Mayor of Shrewsbury, Councillor Alex Wagner; Ian Thorpe, commercial, markets and events manager with Shrewsbury Town Council; Harpreet Rayet, Managing Director at STAR Housing
Councillor David Vasmer said:
“I am delighted that STAR Housing have helped the local community by providing a separate pedestrian entrance to the much-loved Monkmoor Rec which we are officially opened yesterday.
“Previously pedestrians and vehicles used the same entrance with no pavement which was particularly unsafe for wheelchair users and parents with prams. But now that has changed thanks to STAR Housing. They agreed to create the new entrance when planning their housing development next to the Rec.”
David also acknowledged the contribution of recreation ground staff past and present, caretakers, and partners who supported the project.
School Grove, Racecourse Crescent, Shrewsbury
Harpreet Rayet, Managing Director of STAR Housing, added:
“The new pedestrian gate is a key feature of the School Grove development, designed to improve safety and accessibility for everyone using Monkmoor Recreation Ground. Alongside this, we’re proud to deliver thirteen high-quality, energy-efficient homes that meet modern standards and provide much-needed housing in Shrewsbury.”
