Shrewsbury Dana Steps dispute could finally be resolved
An end to a long-running dispute over improved access to a vital set of steps near Shrewsbury's former Dana prison could soon be in sight.
Users of The Dana Steps have long campaigned for a new route suitable for wheelchairs and parents with pushchairs.
But for years there has been stalemate with Shropshire Horticultural Society, which owns the land.
The society has now submitted a planning application to Shropshire Council to create a user-friendly path suitable for people of all, abilities and which would be open at all times.
Society chairman Stephen Kynaston said: "I am confident our planning application is the best scheme possible.
"This will provide a comprehensive solution to all the various issues; namely providing 24-hour access to Castlefields residents, and bypassing the Dana Steps, while retaining the tranquillity of the gardens in the Castle forecourt and the peace and quiet of the local residents.
"The society has a long and proud tradition of civic pride and we believe this scheme is in the best interests of residents, visitors and future generations, while maintaining the integrity of this sensitive heritage site.
"We are pleased to be able to make the land available to enable the creation of a new footway, which will provide safe and easy egress on to Castle Gates.
"Our planning application has been submitted and we have also informed local councillors, the Castlefields Action Group and the Shrewsbury Town Centre Residents Association of our plans together with other relevant organisations and look forward to a positive outcome to what we believe to be a deliverable and worthwhile project."
Parents with pushchairs and wheelchair users who find using the 14 steps difficult can either walk along Howard's Bank and along Castle Foregate in the direction of town or cross the railway footbridge and walk along the Dana footway.
It has been acknowledged for a number of years that the 14 steps create difficulties for some people.
The new 'ramped' walkway would create a by-pass to the steps on land largely owned by Shropshire Horticultural Society.
A similar scheme was submitted by the society and approved by Shrewsbury & Atcham Borough Council.
A decision on the application will be made by members of Shropshire Council's planning department at a date to be set.
