Resident hands in petition after winning debate on saving Bridgnorth landmark

Huw Rees opened his petition last year after he became concerned about the state of Bridgnorth's Grade II listed New Market Building at Postern Gate in Listley Street.

He set up an e-petition on Shropshire Council's website and received hundreds of paper signatories too.

Within a few weeks of setting up the campaign, Mr Rees' received the backing of both the town council and local MP Stuart Anderson.

He also managed to smash the target of 1,000 signatures  - the number needed to force Shropshire Council to debate the fate of the building.

The town centre building is a major landmark and Mr Rees' petition details the historical and architectural value of the premises.

In it he calls for 'restoration' of the New Market Buildings, saying they have "fallen into a dangerous state of disrepair". 

The building was built between 1855 and 1859, acquiring Grade II listed status on April 16, 1987.

Originally used as assembly rooms and space for market traders, it then became a museum before being let as retail units.

While it has hosted numerous shopfronts over the years, the structure including Postern Tower has fallen into neglect due to an absentee landlord.

On Tuesday, Mr Rees took the paper signatures to Shirehall in Shrewsbury.

He said: “I've just been to Shirehall to submit the paper signatures for the New Market Buildings petition - the total came to 370!

“With online signatures included, we're now on an amazing 1554 overall.”

The petition closed on Wednesday, but as it received more than 1,000 signatures a date when it will be debated at Shropshire Council is yet to be confirmed, but the debate will be open to the public.

Despite repeated requests for comment the landlord of the New Market Building has not responded for comment.