How Shrewsbury could look if student accommodation plans get nod
This is how the centre of Shrewsbury could look if plans for four blocks of accommodation for more than 200 students get the go-ahead.
Shropshire Council is tomorrow holding a consultation event in Rowley's House, Barker Street, on its plans to build 217 en-suite rooms for University Centre Shrewsbury on the site of The Tannery car park and the disused Shrewsbury Sixth Form Centre.
The proposals, put forward by Morris Property and Guildhouse UK, are aimed at breathing new life in to the West End of the town.
They follow on from the work taking place to convert Mardol House, next to the indoor market, into student accommodation.
The proposals, which will be on show today from midday to 7.30pm, have been welcomed by the leader of Shrewsbury Town Council.
"This is great news for a really good site," said Councillor Alan Mosley.
"This will provide accommodation on a site which is currently being unused and that is good to see. It will add to the life and economy of the town centre."
The former Sixth Form Centre, known as the Tannery building, has been empty since December 2013. Shropshire Council said the Tannery car park, which is next door, was always intended for development.
A planning application for the student accommodation will be submitted on August 17 and, if approved, the student rooms would be open for September 2016.
A further consultation will be held on the closure of the Tannery car park.
Councillor Claire Wild, Shropshire Council's cabinet member for University Centre Shrewsbury, said: "These proposals provide the chance to regenerate an area of the West End, and further boost the town's economy through new business and jobs.
"As the work at Mardol House, which had been empty for up to 15 years, is taking place we're urging people to come and take a look at the proposals for the next stage.
"St Austin's Street offers an ideal location for high-quality accommodation, within walking distance of other University Centre Shrewsbury sites.
"Due to the procurement process, this is the first opportunity we've had to share the details."
