Repair work to tackle hazardous Fox Corner issues in Shropshire town

A two stage approach to repair work for Bridgnorth’s Fox Corner has been agreed.

Bridgnorth Town Council and Shropshire Council say they are working together to address safety concerns at Fox Corner, one of the gateways to the town.

Initial works are set to start on Monday, November 16, as the first stage of a longer-term improvement project.

A statement from Bridgnorth Town Council said: “The paving at Fox Corner has become increasingly uneven due to the growth of tree roots, creating trip hazards and making the area difficult to navigate, particularly for people with limited mobility and those using wheelchairs, mobility aids or pushchairs.

“Following discussions between the two councils, a two-stage approach has been agreed.

“The first stage, provisionally scheduled for November 16 and 17, will involve removing uneven and unstable paving and laying a temporary tarmac surface over the affected areas to reduce trip hazards and make the area safer for pedestrians.

“Both councils recognise that this temporary surface will not be particularly attractive and will look out of place against the existing paving. However, the immediate priority is to make the area safe while a more permanent solution is developed.

“The second stage will focus on developing a permanent scheme in the new year that improves the appearance, accessibility and use of Fox Corner.

“As an important gateway into Bridgnorth town centre, both councils recognise that Fox Corner deserves a solution that not only addresses the existing problems but also enhances the appearance and character of the area.

“The longer-term proposals will consider the overall layout and use of the space, including appropriate planting and other potential improvements. The local community will be invited to contribute their views as the plans develop, helping to shape the future of this prominent location.”

Councillor Chris Aked, Mayor of Bridgnorth, said: "We know that Fox Corner has been a concern for residents for some time, and I'm pleased that the two councils are working together to address the problems.

“We also recognise that the temporary surface won't look particularly attractive, especially in such a prominent location. However, it is important that we deal with the immediate safety concerns rather than leave the paving in its current condition.

“Fox Corner is one of the gateways into our town, and we want it to be somewhere that creates a positive first impression of Bridgnorth. This is an opportunity to look at the area as a whole, and we look forward to involving the community in shaping a longer-term solution that we can all be proud of."

Councillor Susan Eden, who represents Bridgnorth East, said she is delighted that phase one of the work to make the area safe to pedestrians has been scheduled.

Both councils said they will continue to work together as the project progresses, with further information about the longer-term proposals and opportunities for community involvement to be shared in due course.