Villagers warned over post survey

Shropshire villagers are being warned about a survey which has been posted through their doors amid claims it contains incorrect information.

People living in Astley Abbotts, near Bridgnorth, are being sent the survey, which asks for their feelings on possible boundary changes as part of the new unitary authority proposals.

It has been sent out by district councillors David Murray and Phil Robinson and claims Bridgnorth Town Council wants to include surrouding parishes in its catchment area so they can contribute to the costs of Bridgnorth.

Councillor Murray today said the survey was about encouraging people to have their say and there was "nothing sinister" about it.

However, Jayne Madeley, clerk to Astley Abbotts Parish Council, said no parish or town council had the power to levy a tax on another parish.

Mrs Madeley also said the parish council had not agreed to the survey being circulated.

"This survey has just totally and utterly confused the people of Astley Abbotts," she said. "The survey is all about the unitary authority and boundary divisions, but it is factually incorrect."

Councillor Murray said the aim behind it was to encourage local people to get involved.