A decision by regeneration chiefs to axe funding to a string of multi-million-pound developments across Shropshire was today greeted with disappointment by project leaders.

Many claimed, however, that Advantage West Midlands’ inability to contribute to the schemes – which include a multi-million pound housing project – would not derail them and they would continue as planned.

In Telford & Wrekin, the projects affected include Telford Lakeside, the Nedge Hill Science and Technology Park – major projects involving Transforming Telford, a limited company set up to mastermind the development of the town – and the next phase of the regeneration of Woodside.

Telford Town Centre, however, is to get funding which will see 13,700 jobs safeguarded and 4,000 created, 41 hectares of land reclaimed and 3,000 new homes built.

The Lakeside project in Priorslee is a multi-million pound project which was set to include 600 homes, a hotel, sports and leisure facilities and a new learning campus.

Advantage West Midlands’ contribution to the next phase of work on Woodside was due to have been the provision of a property acquired using its money.

A Transforming Telford spokeswoman said: “In spite of the recent announcement regarding funding cuts across the region, we are confident that we can move key technology projects forward, continue to help businesses expand and secure jobs for the future.”

Also set to be denied funding are the Flax Mill in Shrewsbury, Ludlow Market Square, North Shropshire Employment Land and Shropshire Portal, Shrewsbury.

The Shropshire Portal is a heritage visitor centre being developed at the old Music Hall while the historic Flax Mill in Shrewsbury is also due to undergo a £30 million regeneration.

Councillor Alan Mosley, a member of the Ditherington Flax Mill Steering Group, said: “My understanding is alternative means of funding will be investigated.”

A Shropshire Council spokeswoman said of the Portal funding cut: “While this is disappointing, we do not anticipate it affecting the overall outcomes of the Shropshire Portal Project.”

Mark Foley, AWM partnership director, said the agency was having to redirect resources to concentrate on projects which would have the greatest impact on regeneration.

“Investment in Telford Town Centre is a good example as it is one of 20 impact investment locations and so is a priority,” he said.

By Simon Hardy