Shifnal plan for 400 homes sparks flooding fear
Residents in Shifnal have raised concerns that plans for 400 new homes could aggravate flooding problems in the town.
The town was hit by severe floods in 2007 when the Wesley Brook rose flooding 60 properties. Dozens of residents have now written to Shropshire Council in order to object to development plans to build hundreds of homes on green belt land lying off Haughton Road.
Many fear the development will increase the risk of flooding with more surface water running into the Wesley Brook.
Lioncourt Homes has applied to build 400 homes, a medical centre and allotments on the site. The scheme would also include land for a community swimming pool. Residents in the town have campaigned for years for their own pool with a funding committee raising cash for the scheme.
The Worcestershire builders said the application for outline planning permission had followed extensive public consultation.
The firm held two exhibitions in the town gathering public opinion on what people wanted in the development.
However dozens of residents have now written to Shropshire Council planners objecting to the scheme.
A decision on the application is due on Monday, February 11.
Resident Jan Thackeray said: "I have grave concerns regarding the draining of surface water into Wesley Brook which would only increase the risk of flooding further downstream.
"The brook struggles to cope now during any prolonged heavy downpours, which seem to be happening more frequently and it is a constant worry for people.
"We should be looking to decrease the amount of water going into the brook not increasing it."
By Judith Sanders
