And the district centres of the new town will be successful “niche economies” in their own right.

This is the blueprint for the economic future of the town according to Vision 2026 – a document from the Telford & Wrekin Strategic Partnership which lays out the development – cultural, social and financial – of Telford.

But is it pie in the sky? Or could it actually become a reality?

Ray Prior, chairman of Telford Economic Development Partnership, believes it is an aspirational document but believes its aims are achievable.

“In business it is always important to aim high and the aims set out within the Vision to be a ‘city of enterprise and innovation’ are challenging and high aims. Nevertheless they are achievable if business and the community has a will to make them happen.

“Two years ago the Borough set out its Economic Development strategy for the next 20 years after in-depth consultation with business. I was part of that consultation process and out of it has been born Telford First, a partnership between the private and public sector to take this vision forward and to lead the regeneration of the region.

“The hopes which Vision 2026 express are achievable because they start with and build on existing strengths within the region; they are taken from the economic development strategy which is based upon what local business people are saying must happen and can happen if we are to have a vibrant economy.”

And Mike Norris, director of the Wolverhampton Telford Technology Corridor, also believes the Vision is possible despite companies seeking efficiencies which can lead to job losses or relocating part of their operations overseas.

“But this isn’t all bad news or a reflection on Telford’s skills base or attractiveness for investment; it is simply part of the way that the UK’s economy is evolving.”

“Many Telford companies, both large and small have made great strides in adapting to these changes by diversifying, developing new products and processes that are innovative, cost and energy efficient. Companies are investing in new equipment, lean manufacturing techniques and skills training to remain competitive.

“At the same time, new companies and entrepreneurs need to be encouraged and supported to stimulate the enterprise and innovation that will drive the next wave of high-growth niche companies.”

“By providing the right infrastructure in terms of sites and premises, transport links, business support programmes and the expertise to encourage innovation, knowledge transfer and the development of new technologies, we can ensure that Telford is once again at the forefront of innovation.

But Shropshire Chamber of Commerce says some of its members have expressed concerns that market towns will be left behind by the Telford Town Centre-focused proposals.

Policy executive Richard Jarrott said: “Those in towns such as Wellington and Newport do not see themselves as district centres. They are fully formed towns with full facilities and histories.

“Vision 2026 makes a lot of assumptions about the enthusiasm for cycling and public transport use. We cannot see why the public will suddenly switch to public transport when they are not heavy users currently.

“Whilst for environmental reasons it is desirable to have low road use, we should not artificially restrict road capacity, or cripple the road network to achieve this.”

Mr Jarrott said many of Telford’s old industries are in declining sectors, and the town needs to build on its existing success in hi-tech areas to make sure that it is a viable community.

“We also need to ensure that initiatives such as Telford First are able to succeed by fully engaging the business community, rather than becoming yet another political process.

“Hi-tech computer networks, as suggested in Vision 2026, are simply a fact of life.,They will not distinguish Telford but without them we will not survive.”

Mr Jarrott’s comments were echoed by Oakengates trader Gary Fraser who said he was pleased the Vision document recognises the importance of the district centres.

But he feels the areas need investment now to even survive until 2026.

The proposal is for town district centres to complement the bigger shopping centres and retail parks.

Mr Fraser said: “It’s a lovely thought, but I think it’s pie in the sky.

“Traders in the centres likely Madeley, Oakengates and Dawley, need the cash now, need investment now. Otherwise, I can see in 20 years time, we won’t have district centres to revamp.

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