Bridgnorth trader calls for traffic calming after building hit
An antiques centre boss today called for traffic calming measures to be introduced in Bridgnorth's Low Town after a car damaged his property.
John Ridgway, who runs the Old Mill Antiques Centre, is calling for speed bumps to be introduced along Mill Street after thousands of pounds of damage was caused to his wall.
Mr Ridgway said a car struck both his house and the Grade II listed building before hitting the steps at the Blue Ginger restaurant.
He said: "The speed limit in Mill Street is 30mph but many drivers exceed this, which is insanity considering there will be people turning into the supermarket car park, the Parlors Hall car park and our car park – and that they are approaching an island at speed.
"I now have to replace broken bricks and drainpipes at my house and the damage to our building fronting on to Mill Street will cost a great deal to put right.
"This house is one of the oldest in Low Town, dating from the 1700s, and we have recently carried out extensive restoration work on it in conjunction with Shropshire Council and English Heritage.
"Now three corner stones, which were cut especially in a Welsh quarry, have been damaged and will have to be replaced, which will be extremely expensive.
"Speed bumps are definitely needed in Mill Street to prevent this kind of accident happening again – this time property was damaged, next time a pedestrian or another driver could be seriously injured."
Police today confirmed an investigation has been launched into the damage caused to the antiques centre, as well as an alleged assault on 63-year-old Mr Ridgway.
West Mercia Police spokesman Richard Ewels said: "Police attended and a 38-year-old man was arrested released on suspicion of assault and dangerous driving.
"He was released on bail with conditions while enquires are being looked into."
