‘Life‑expired’ Shropshire primary school set for demolition as delayed rebuild plans submitted

Plans to rebuild St Andrew’s Primary School in Shifnal have been in the works for three years, but have been met with delays.

First announced in 2023, the project was due to have begun the following year, with a completion date of Easter 2026.

Now it appears the project will finally see the light of day with the submission of a planning application following a public consultation.

The existing 1970s main school block, described in planning documents as “life‑expired [...] with inefficient layout and subject to ongoing maintenance issues”, will be demolished along with several temporary and ancillary buildings.

One newer block, built around 2020 and still in good condition, will be retained and refurbished to accommodate a new 26‑place nursery and specialist teaching space.

Plans include a new two-storey building with Key Stage 2 classrooms on the upper floor, and new specialist accommodation for music lessons.

Covered outdoor learning areas for Early Years pupils are also in the plans, along with improved external play and sports provision.

In the documents, the school emphasised its ambition to create “the best possible legacy for the community” and a building pupils can be proud of.

The plans state that redevelopment will be delivered in phases so the school can remain operational and avoid the need for temporary classrooms.

The existing main building will stay in use until the new school is complete, after which demolition and landscape works will follow.

The full application (reference number 26/03178/FUL) is open for comment until October 1, when it will then be considered by Shropshire Council planning officers.

• You can find out more about planning applications and planned roadworks where you live by visiting publicnoticeportal.uk/shropshire-star