Objections to plans for more homes in Shifnal
A new estate of 250 homes in Shifnal would include a new park – but residents claim there is no room for any more development.
Taylor Wimpey has applied for permission to build up to 250 homes off the Wolverhampton road in Shifnal, next to the Thomas Beddoes Court development already under construction.
The company says the new development would include a new town park for new and existing residents, and there is a possibility of a new bus service to the estate in the future.
About 15 per cent of the new homes would be deemed "affordable", and a new footpath into the town centre would be provided by knocking down a house in Silvermere Park.
The plan is the latest in a string of applications for new homes in Shifnal, but residents have repeatedly claimed that the town's infrastructure can't cope. There have so far been 36 comments from members of the public on Shropshire Council's planning website, most of which oppose the plans.
Resident Peter Hassall said the proposed site was not within the agreed development boundary of Shifnal and queried what the development meant for plans for a new health centre.
He said: "Taylor Wimpey has already promised a site for the new medical centre within the Thomas Beddoes Court development but now regard this land as a potential residential area. I suggest this is an imposition and Shifnal people deserve an opportunity to have the new medical centre closer to the town centre."
People in Shifnal claim it is a victim of its own success, with house builders rushing to meet the demand from people keen to move to a market town that is seen as attractive, with good shops, entertainment and schools.
Those against extra development claim the infrastructure is not yet in place to cope with a major expansion.
Mr Hassall added: "Consent for this site should not be given until there is a solution to Shifnal's traffic problems following the traffic study being undertaken by Shropshire Council."
Another resident, Chris Broderick, writing on the council's website, said: "Shifnal is already now committed to over 915 new homes. This development will increase the figure to well over 1,000 and we have yet to see a plan for a new medical practice.
"Flooding issues still have not been properly addressed. There should now be a suspension of any further development on top of the 915-plus already agreed until the town has been given time to adjust, and gauge in real life, how it may adapt for further growth."
