Plans for a 17-metre long timber jetty which would “enhance the character” of Shrewsbury’s Quarry park could be approved next week.The new fixed jetty would be more than two metres wide and would be attached to the river embankment near the Porthill Suspension Bridge.

Borough Council officers are recommending proposals for the jetty are approved because it will enhance the character of the area and the “setting of the locality”.

The new jetty will provide a stopping point for small craft and pleasure boats and would have disabled access.

The proposal was put forward by the council after a report on the regeneration of the River Severn identified an opportunity to introduce new recreational and boating facilities along the river through the introduction of new pontoons.

A report to councillors, who will meet to discuss the issue on Tuesday, says the Environment Agency have raised no objection but suggest that further consideration is given to the design of the structure.

The Campaign to Protect Rural England has raised concerns the jetty would be an “intrusion which would be harmful to the setting of the Quarry Park”.

But people in Shrewsbury have welcomed the proposals. One supporter claims the proposal would be a notable addition to the town’s principal park.

The jetty has been designed by RJ Engineering, a Cumbria-based company, which says it would be for use by canoes and small private boats.

Richard Marsh of RJ Engineering has stressed that the proposed jetty would not be used by the Sabrina pleasure boat, which currently offers cruises along the Severn, but will provide a site for mooring.

The jetty would be constructed from greenheart timbers, with galvanised fixings for decking boards and waveboardsz.

Mr Marsh estimates that the work would take three to four weeks to complete.

By Rhea Parsons