Market Drayton planning group told it's not doing enough

Local organisations have claimed that since the Market Drayton Town Plan Group was set up three years ago it has failed to implemented 54 proposals from local people.

The group, which was transformed into the Market Drayton Community Partnership in February, was set up to move the ideas forward.

But Mark Whittle, chairman of Creative Drayton, which uses empty shops and buildings to show local artwork, said there has been little action from anyone involved.

He said: "I'm down as being on the group but haven't been to any meetings for months because of my dismay.

"They haven't produced anything at all and I'm concerned that it is only a small town and there are only a few people who are willing to help.

"I felt pressured to take part and to hand over all the different concepts that we had come up with.

"They are very good at paperwork but as far as finished jobs are concerned, it is not a lot."

Andy Brown , chairman of the Chamber of Trade, said it was disappointing that a lot of the ideas had not yet been implemented.

He said: "The town plan has been out for about 18 months and it does need to be looked at because it was put together by the people of the town."

The group was given money left over from the Town Plan Steering Group, believed to be less than £1,000.

Vice-chairman Steve Glover said a lot of work was being done behind the scenes.

He said: "I think the criticism is unfounded because we can't take on all 54 proposals.

"Some are for Shropshire Council and some for the town council too.

"At the last meeting I said let's get it done so the people know we are actually doing something.

"We have talked about Samdev, the Portas Pilot bid, revitalising the High Street and clearance work at the Walkmill Meadow.

"As far as being pressurised is concerned, we said anybody is welcome to submit ideas, they are not stolen but there is no point in having duplication."