'Roads will not cope!' Traffic and infrastructure fears raised over 226-home plan in Shrewsbury
“Roads will not cope” and there are not enough doctors or school places for a 226-home housing development to be built in Shrewsbury.
That is according to some residents, who have raised major concerns about the development proposed for Oteley Road.
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Persimmon Homes West Midlands lodged an application last November for land off Thrower Road. The site already has outline planning permission for housing.
The plans include a mix of one- to four-bedroom homes, with 91 available for affordable rent, shared ownership, and discounted sale.
More than 5.5 acres of public open space are proposed, alongside a new play area. Landscaping plans would deliver a 10 per cent biodiversity net gain on site.
However, the plans have not gone down well with everyone.
Mr Thomas Cor submitted an objection on the Shropshire Council planning portal, and said: “This site is a development too far. Oteley Road is under supported by services as it is to allow more housing.
“Adding more housing on road junctions that will not cope with additional cars is reckless. There are not enough school places as it is for us.
“I object in the strongest terms. Shrewsbury needs its green spaces and this is one that should be kept.”
His thoughts were echoed by Mrs Victoria Moore, who said: “Where is the added infrastructure for these houses? The schools and the doctors in the area are already at capacity and can't cope.
“Oteley Road and Meole Brace roundabout are bad enough as it is, without the potential 500+ cars.
“The land was never meant to be for residential use.”
According to Persimmon, all homes would be built to modern energy standards, with electric vehicle charging points and solar panels provided as standard.
As part of the proposals, Persimmon says it would contribute £1.7 million towards local education through Section 106 funding. A community infrastructure levy contribution of £972,523 is also set to be paid as part of the development works.
Persimmon Homes West Midlands said the plans have been shaped to reflect local planning policy and deliver high-quality homes for local people in a sustainable setting.
Lee Perry, technical director for Persimmon Homes West Midlands, said: “These plans will deliver a wide range of homes helping to meet local needs in Shrewsbury.
“We’re committed to creating well-designed places to live, with green space, play facilities, and modern, energy-efficient homes that support local homebuyers.”
The application can be viewed on Shropshire Council's planning portal (reference number 25/04361/REM).
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