Shop could be part of Shrewsbury university halls plan
Shropshire Council has admitted that some retail could be included in new university halls being built in Shrewsbury.
Work starts on the halls at the former Tannery from next week with the car park at St Austin's Street closed yesterday in preparation.
It is rumoured that the development, which will provide accommodation for 200 students of University Centre Shrewsbury, could include a shop or supermarket.
Now Shropshire Council has admitted that while no decision has been taken over any retail which could be included in the development, that it is one of the options that could be considered.
Steve Law, strategic asset manager for Shropshire Council, said: "The plans for student accommodation at The Tannery site are currently as per the planning permission granted in 2015.
"Like any construction project the process of detailed design development, which is underway, is considering potential amendments and enhancements and these will go through a process of review before the final design is agreed.
"No decisions have been taken in relation to incorporating an element of retail but this is one option that could be considered for the final scheme."
The work will begin next week after the car park is closed and fenced off. Contractors will then move in to demolish the former study-centre building. It has previously been described as an eyesore by councillors.
Plans for the accommodation for University Centre Shrewsbury students were approved in December 2015, although the project was placed on hold. It will see the blocks of accommodation built on a phased basis.
Tim Smith, head of business, enterprise and commercial services, with Shropshire Council, said: "This new accommodation will support the redevelopment of the west end of Shrewsbury town centre and will be a significant improvement for the area."
Paul Kirkbright, University Centre deputy provost, said he was looking forward to seeing the development get underway.
Shropshire Council is already responsible for university halls in Shrewsbury at Mardol House, which it refurbished in time for the arrival of the fledgling institution's first undergraduates.
