Northern Gateway scheme to be discussed at central planning committee

A scheme to enhance Shrewsbury’s ‘northern gateway’ is to be discussed at Shropshire Council’s central planning committee today (Thursday 10 May 2012). 

The scheme, which has received a great deal of support from local people, will cost around £1.6 million – all of which will be funded by external sources. 

It will include new pedestrian and cycle crossing facilities, wider York stone pavements, relocation of bus stops, changes to on-street parking, upgraded traffic signals, and landscaping and lighting around Shrewsbury railway station and the Chester Street gyratory system. 

Simon Jones, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member with responsibility for transport, said:

“It’s a difficult junction which struggles to cope with ever-increasing demand.  Plus, the low bridge means that strikes by tall vehicles are a regular occurrence (around 50 per year). 

“This much-needed scheme is widely supported by local people and it’s great that, once again, our transport planning team has successfully secured external funding to complete this.” 

Andrew Bannerman, Shropshire Councillor for Quarry and Coton Hill, added:

“This scheme has been well designed and deservedly received widespread support at consultation.  It won’t solve all the problems of this very difficult junction, but it should make life easier for pedestrians and cyclists and reduce some of the congestion.  It will also make this a much more pleasant gateway to the town centre.”