Plan for new Newport dance centre gets dozens of messages in support

Members of the public, businesses and councillors have given their support to plans to create a community dance centre for children and young people in Newport.

But mayor Thomas Janke, who also sits on Telford & Wrekin Council's planning committee, told a meeting of Newport Town Council last week that there is currently a "stop" on the application.

The proposal is to change the use of a storage and distribution unit in Audley Avenue.

Town councillor David Ellams had asked if the town council could make a favourable “corporate response” to the application by Urban Out Steppers.

Mayor Janke said he was "not necessarily against" a response but said: "Without giving too much away there is currently a stop on the application."

The mayor told his colleagues that there is "an issue regarding the use of the building”.

He noted that there had been "hundreds of comments in support" but noted: "It is on a little bit of a sticky wicket at the moment."

A spokesperson for Telford & Wrekin Council said: "The application is currently on hold pending validation.

"The supporting documents will be published on the planning portal once the application is live."

The application was previously listed as having a consultation closing date of September 11, 2026 and some 58 comments in support of the application had been made after details went up on the planning portal.

One person wrote: "My granddaughter attends this facility and has improved 100 per cent through input of these lovely people."

A parent added: "I’m a parent of a child who attends the Monday SEND session, this has given him so much confidence and the whole set up is wonderful for Newport.

"The team put in so much work and support for all the students, it really is an inspiration."

Mayor Janke, as ward councillor, himself wrote: "I cannot identify any material planning concerns that would justify objection."

Borough councillor Peter Scott, who also sits on the planning committee, had also added his support.

He wrote: "The dance school has a very positive reputation across the area.

"They conduct themselves well and the community appreciate all they do locally.

"They need stability now to be able to progress. Please look favourably on this application."

The land and property in question are solely owned by Telford and Wrekin Council.