Council approves fresh plans for Shrewsbury Flax Mill

Architects Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios have drawn up plans to repair and conserve several buildings at the Grade I listed site in Ditherington, including the Dye and Stove House, offices and stables.

It forms the first phase of ambitious plans to transform the building into a thriving community hub, complete with bars, shops, and offices – creating up to 1,000 jobs.

It is hoped £11.6 million can be obtained from the Heritage Lottery Fund to fund the first stage of the work – with an additional £6 million potentially available from the European Regional Development Fund.

Outline planning permission for the Flax Mill master plan was granted in 2010.

The new application provides more detailed designs for work on the Grade II listed Dye and Stove Houses, as well as landscaping for the area around the Flax Mill.

It is hoped the proposed work will transform the 200-year-old buildings into an adaptable semi public space which could be used as a music venue, art gallery or office.

A design and access statement in support of the application said: "The vision for the Dye and Stove House is to bring the buildings back into fuller social and economic use, whilst preserving the special character of the Grade II listed structures." The application also includes plans for restoration work on the Grade II listed office and stables.

And Shrewsbury Town Council has given its full backing to the fresh application.

In a statement of support to Shropshire Council planners, town councillors said the development would be a welcome tourist attraction for the town as well as highlighting Shrewsbury's industrial heritage.