Flats scheme for car park on hold

Controversial plans to build an apartment block on the site of a Telford theatre car park have been stopped from going before planning chiefs.

Worried councillors have demanded more time for public consultation before a decision is made on building 17 flats at the junction of New Street and Slaney Street in Oakengates.

The development near to Oakengates Theatre would result in the loss of 38 car parking spaces and residents have expressed concerns for the future of the town if the plans go ahead.

The application from Telford & Wrekin Council was due to go before its plans board on June 11, and officers had recommended it for approval.

But today Conservative ward councillors Joy Francis and Sean Kelly said they had persuaded officials to defer consideration.

Councillor Kelly said although people wanted to see the back of the "eyesore" former Eades Engineering factory, which forms part of the site, they did not want to lose the parking spaces.

He said they had a raft of consultation exercises planned, including public meetings, surveys and an open forum day.

He added: "While we cannot determine the outcome, we can make certain that before it reaches the plans board all loose ends have been tied up and residents' concerns allayed."

Councillor Francis said: "We are keen to draw up a master plan for Oakengates so residents and traders have a long-term vision to work towards."

Councillor Eric Carter, cabinet member for regeneration, said: "Once the results of the survey have been analysed, officers and councillors will again consider the application after holding a public meeting to discuss the outcome of the consultation."