Swim pool hope in Shifnal homes scheme

A new swimming pool could be included in plans for a housing development in a Shropshire town, it has been revealed.

Lioncourt Homes held a public exhibition of their plans for 400 homes and a doctor's surgery, off Haughton Road in Shifnal, in a bid to sway public opinion to back their project.

The move comes after county planners decided to show support for a rival scheme in another part of town.

Andy Faizey, the strategic land director for Lioncourt Homes, said more than 100 people attended the event at Shifnal Village Hall.

He said: "We were happy with the feedback which is being taken on board.

"Two key areas were identified, the speed of existing traffic along Haughton Road, which is a clear concern, and the town's desire for a new swimming pool.

"We are taking both matters seriously and are arranging meetings with two groups set up within the town which will consider how our development might slow traffic down on Haughton Road, and how we could incorporate a swimming pool within our site."

The firm aims to hold a second exhibition in late June or early July to show how the proposals have moved on before submitting a planning application.

Shropshire Council says 400 homes should be built in Shifnal as part of its draft SAMdev – a planning blueprint for the next 15 years.

Three sites were identified but the council says its preferred option is at Aston Road and not the scheme by Lioncourt Homes.

However, the Droitwich-based firm hopes to get public opinion on its side. Consultation on the SAMdev proposals continues until June 8.