Telford garden centre and farm shop saved after protests

A huge social media campaign was launched when plans were unveiled last month for 1,000 homes at Woodhouse Lane, Priorslee, appeared to threaten the future of Lakeside Plant Centre and Greenfields Farm Shop.

The 60 hectare site is owned by Lord Stafford Estates and is one of the potential housing sites identified in Telford & Wrekin Council's Shaping Places Local Plan.

Developer Miller Homes has now unveiled its plans for more than 1,000 homes and a new primary school - plus a pledge that the existing businesses would be allowed to stay. Up to 1,600 construction jobs could also be created.

Steve Evans, who owns Lakeside Plant Centre, said: "Obviously it's very encouraging. "There is still a lot of work to be done - I still don't know who my landlord is or who I will be dealing with, but it looks an awful lot better.

"I have got more meetings with them and they have asked me to be on the stakeholder board as well.

"We are very relieved. It just shows that public support does work, it's been fantastic.

"The council have been very supportive themselves as well, everyone we spoke to was very helpful."

Miller Homes and the landowners are now starting a public consultation on the plans.

Russell Poole, agent for Lord Stafford Estates, said: "The land east of Priorslee is an ideal site for development which will provide a significant portion of the new homes Telford & Wrekin Council need to deliver."

Miller Homes is planning a public exhibition in mid-July, at which all residents will be invited to have their say on plans for 1,100 homes and a primary school.

The firm said the proposals included keeping the existing businesses, which should benefit from new customers on their doorstep.

Julie Morgan at Miller Homes said: "We believe it is right that local people should be consulted on the plans and we are working with local stakeholders to make sure these plans accurately reflect both the current needs and future aspirations of local residents."