Telford College set to go to Specsavers in outreach bid

A Shropshire college is proposing to ‘go to Specsavers’ – or rather a former branch of the famous opticians – so more people can see its educational offers.

Telford College wants to set up a base in Telford Shopping Centre to provide educational, learning and training facilities within the high footfall spot.

Get the latest headlines delivered straight to your inbox with the Shropshire Star’s free newsletter

In a planning application lodged with Telford & Wrekin Council agents say they have to apply for permission because it would be a change of use of Unit 103, The Border.

“The premises were most recently occupied by Specsavers and have therefore operated lawfully within Use Class E,” the agents write.

“The unit is currently vacant and available for re-occupation.”

Agent Fisher German LLP add that the “proposed development forms part of Telford College’s wider strategy to strengthen its visibility, accessibility and engagement with employers, learners and the wider community through establishing a dedicated Skills Hub within Telford Town Centre.”

The plan is for the Skills Hub to provide a highly visible and accessible location through which the college can deliver education, skills development, workforce training, apprenticeship support, careers guidance, employer engagement and community outreach activities.

Telford Centre attracts “approximately 14-15 million visitors each year, equating to approximately 300,000 visitors per week” the agents write.

“The location therefore provides a unique opportunity for the college to engage directly with businesses, prospective learners, apprentices and members of the wider community.”

The new facility would operate between 8am and 6pm Monday to Saturday.

Activities could include further education provision, vocational learning, apprenticeship support, careers advice and guidance, workforce development initiatives, adult learning opportunities, employer engagement activities, recruitment support services and wider community outreach programmes.

“The Skills Hub will provide a highly visible and accessible presence within Telford Town Centre and act as a focal point for education, skills, employability and workforce development activities,” the agent adds.

Using a shopping centre base would also “enable the college to respond to changing educational requirements and emerging labour market needs whilst supporting a diverse range of learners and employers.”

They add that the only potential adverse consideration is the loss of a single retail unit.

“However, the premises are currently vacant and the proposed educational use will continue to generate footfall, activity and economic benefits within the town centre.

“The proposal delivers clear benefits, with no identified harm that would justify refusal.

“It is therefore respectfully requested that planning permission be granted.”

A consultation has been launched on the Telford & Wrekin Council website with the reference TWC/2026/0512

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