Shropshire Star

Objections over plan to convert former Shifnal bank into nursery and training centre

A former Shifnal bank could be transformed into a nursery and training facility.

Published
The old Lloyds Bank building in Shifnal

But the plans for the Lloyds building have sparked objections over parking issues.

The former bank, in Park Street, is earmarked to be converted in the plans which have been lodged with Shropshire Council.

The proposals are expected to create 16 jobs, but residents have raised concerns over traffic and parking.

A report, submitted with the plans, says: "With the demise of the high street banks in the town we wish to change the buildings usage to D1 to provide other community facilities and create local employment.

"The change of use would ensure the building remains a commercial property as part of the services offered in the town. The building is currently vacant and of no further use as a bank.

"The change of use consent would ensure that the building is maintained and preserved respectfully as one of the towns historic buildings."

Under the plans, the building would be used as an adult education training facility and nursery.

There is parking on site for up to 18 cars.

The report continues: "We do not anticipate any increase in traffic movement from when the premises operated as Lloyds Bank and a large accountancy firm.

"The fenced and gated car park is situated at the rear of the premises.

"Drop off times for the child care provision would be staggered due to varying session times with drop off and collection times taking an average of 10 minutes.

"My prospective tenant anticipates 70 per cent of children attending would be walked to the facility."

Ken Poole, of The Grove, Shifnal, has objected to the plans.

He said: "That building has always been used for offices and the staff never overused the car park.

"However, parents visiting, staff and other visitors will have no choice but to park in the street on double yellow lines, on pavements and outside our homes blocking our drives as indeed drivers currently do.

"This application if approved will make the situation 10 times worse."

Another resident, Iris Dodds, has also objected.

She said: "There is not sufficient parking or access for a nursery, its staff and visitors without impeding residents as it stands.

"I live right at the top of the junction with Park Street just a few yards from the old bank building and it is a continuous problem with the parking and passing traffic.

"I cannot even park outside my own home."

There have been no objections from Shropshire Council's highways department.

A decision on the proposals is expected to be made by Shropshire Council in the upcoming months.