Plans backed for a 'green city'
Plans to transform Telford from a 1960s new town to a 21st century city of 200,000 people would mean thousands more jobs and homes as well as a lively centre, councillors were told.
The proposals were welcomed night by borough councillors who said they were keen to make Telford a "green city", with a beautiful natural environment, setting the national standard for recycling and energy efficiency.
They stressed that becoming part of the new West Midlands city region was a vital way to bring cash to Telford and ensure continuing growth and prosperity.
They made their comments at a meeting of the Telford & Wrekin's cabinet.
Members unanimously endorsed the Community Strategy - a joint public and private sector wish-list for the next 20 years.
It has been drawn up by the Telford & Wrekin Local Strategic Partnership.
The document says the "city of the 21st century" would boast a lively centre, and cultural attractions, while Telford Town Park would rival New York's Central Park for its "stunning" green environment.
It claims thousands of well-paid jobs and homes would be created.
Councillor Ian Baker said Telford's characteristics as a "green city", with sustainable use of natural resources, made it somewhere which few, if any, places could match.