Warning given to town planners

As an architect and building designer I have, for many years, considered Shrewsbury as having the same potential as Chester and York for tourism based on its history and buildings.

As a result of a recent invitation I was given a guided tour of the town that I know so well.

As a result, I have to ask what and who has allowed the local planners to accept such a hideous piece of art, or is it scrap, as a memorial to Darwin?

And then the shed that is allegedly a new theatre, what an eyesore.

Obviously the people who have allowed this are not true Salopians as they would not block out or destroy the unique Tudor architecture with such a obscene construction.

I compliment the Morris group of companies for its building extension in Bridge Street, excellent.

However the very same company is responsible for the ugly buildings at the base of Claremont Bank, together with the proposed building in Barker Street that will block out the views of Rowley's Mansion.

I fear that Shrewsbury will soon be totally off the tourist map.

I then read that the chairman of the local authority does not know the history or origin of the crest of arms used by the town and county councils.

It further adds fuel to Darwin's belief that the origin of man is from apes, alas the apes are long gone from Shrewsbury leaving a species that is some what less superior in charge of its town's planning affairs.

Dr David Abbott

Canterbury