Roads verdict due on Ludlow supermarket plan
A road authority says it will issue its verdict over Ludlow's planned out-of-town supermarket in a matter of weeks, not three months as previously stated.
Highways England put the decision over plans for the store at Rocks Green, Ludlow, on hold over concerns about increased traffic and road safety on the nearby A49, for the planned store will be next to at Rocks Green, Ludlow, if it goes ahead.
The body's verdict will be key in determining if the controversial supermarket can be built or not, and is needed before the scheme – already in limbo for more than a year – can be ruled upon by Shropshire Council.
Joe Wilson, Highways England spokesperson, said extra traffic modelling information had now been received from developer Blackfriars, and Shropshire Council should not have to wait until June for feedback.
He said: "We will be completing a review of this information and will provide a response to Shropshire Council in the next few weeks.
Objectors say an out-of-town supermarket is unnecessary in Ludlow and will sorely affect town centre trade.
Tish Dockerty, secretary of Ludlow Chamber of Commerce and one of those spearheading the Love Ludlow campaign against the supermarket plan, said: "We'll wait and see what Highways England say and act accordingly."
