Council officers will go back to the drawing board to come up with a more traditional look for the £8 million “gateway” project to transform Wellington.

And they will investigate whether to save 19th century Edgbaston House in Walker Street from being bulldozed as part of the scheme for the regeneration of the town’s civic quarter.

Telford & Wrekin Council is to bring forward the revised scheme after people power consultation.

The regeneration proposals, while welcomed in principle, have sparked controversy during the three-week consultation.

Artists’ impressions of ultra-modern, flat-roofed buildings were published, showing a new civic quarter with library, cafe, register office and offices for some 200 council staff.

Boulevard

These would be built along a boulevard-style pedestrian street called Larkin Way, leading into the heart of Wellington.

Critics said the new buildings looked more in keeping with the Costa del Sol than a historic market town.

People were also unhappy Edgbaston House, Walker Street, formerly a solicitors’ office and coroner’s court, faced demolition.

The council has received more than 100 comments after discussing the ideas with hundreds of people and groups, including Wellington Chamber of Commerce, Wellington Partnership and the town’s Historic Society.

Councillor Eric Carter, cabinet member for regeneration, said: “As well as the many positive comments, some particular areas have been raised, including comments about the design which we are glad to receive.

“It is critical people are listened to and we take their views on board and I am sure this will be reflected, wherever possible, in the plans that come forward.

“We have a great opportunity to regenerate this part of Wellington, but we must also ensure we stimulate business and prosperity while staying as true as possible to the town’s heritage.”

The council, which still plans to start building work before the end of the year, will now look into the architectural design and the feasibility and cost of including pitched roofs and retaining all or part of Edgbaston House.

By Peter Johnson