Local support for British Ironwork Centre plans

The British Ironwork Centre has been a massive boost to the economy in the Oswestry area, according to supporters.

Owners of the centre have applied to Shropshire Council under the company name Black Country Metal Works Ltd for retrospective planning permission for facilities built at the site many years ago.

The application includes changing the use of land and buildings, building extensions to form an enterprise centre, and creating visitor parking areas, camping field, nature reserve and children's play area.

Shropshire Council will have to decide whether to grant permission for the centre, which attracts thousands of visitors each week, and allow it to continue to operate.

In the days since the application was lodged letters have been sent to the council pointing out its importance to the area.

Former businessman Peter Starbuck said the centre and arts and tourism venue was entirely self funded.

"The centre has won community awards and has been awarded tourism honours and perhaps its most important contribution to the area is as the biggest employer on the east side of Oswestry," he said.

"It would be a travesty to see such a great success handicapped by bureaucratic red tape, especially in light of so many public amenities and services either closing or being threatened by financial cuts."

Part of the centre is given over to artisan units with up and coming businesses allow to work from the units rent free.

Florist Hazel Wakefield said that the chance to set up her business without rental costs had make the difference to her moving forward. "The support has been invaluable and I believe unique in Shropshire," she said.

Peter Morris, another artist and inventor, said the centre had helped him to progress his work. He said: "It has enabled me to become involved in bigger and bolder projects."

Neil Jenkins, chairman of Oswestry Chamber of Commerce, said the attraction had led to large numbers of people come to Oswestry.

"You attract the public to our area which no doubt benefits not only your business but others in and around Oswestry."

Charities that have lent their support include Severn Hospice, Hope House Children's Hospice and the Poppy Appeal.