Councillors give reluctant approval for Broseley homes plan

The plans for land near Coalport Close had faced opposition from residents who said they would put pressure on the town's roads and the nearby John Wilkinson Primary School.

Despite their own reservations, councillors on Shropshire Council's South Planning Committee said they had no choice but to accept the scheme because of Government guidelines that insist councils have a five-year supply of building land.

Councillor Jean Jones, from Broseley Town Council, told yesterday's meeting at Shirehall: "I do understand, of course, the problems this committee has at the moment.

"I am here today to speak against this application and voice the anger of the community.

"We would argue this development isn't sustainable and will have a negative impact on local services."

Councillor Jones said the development would see the town extend over towards Telford.

Councillor Nigel Hartin said: "We are all very annoyed about the situation we are in.

"I don't think we have any choice but to accept this proposal."

The vote was split with four councillors approving the development and four councillors against.

Councillor Stuart West, vice chairman of the committee who was acting as chairman in the absence of Councillor David Evans, had the deciding vote.

He chose to approve the proposals but said: "It is a difficult situation we are in. We are being held over a barrel by the Government.

"I have categorically stated a flaw in the system. The difficulty we have is when we try to defend the decision.

"As the casting vote, I will have to approve.

"This is extremely reluctantly.

"I do intend to question the legality of what is happening."