All news
Thousands of people use First Point of Contact number for social care advice
More than 14,000 calls have been made to a Shropshire Council contact number for adults who require help, support or advice about social care for the first time, in the year since it was launched. From Friday 13 May 2011 …
Local businesses help shape and grow Shropshire’s economy
This year’s interactive Business Summit took place on Monday 14 May 2012 at Shrewsbury Town FC’s Greenhous Meadow.
Packed agenda for the Meole Sutton and Column LJC in Shrewsbury
The next meeting of Meole, Sutton and Column Local Joint Committee (LJC) is being held on Tuesday 22 May 2012 at 7pm at Shrewsbury College, London Road. The meeting is taking place in the common room by the main reception. …
Straw-bale building course at Acton Scott Farm this Sunday
Have you ever fancied building a house out of straw-bales? Matthew Lloyd has done that very thing and built himself a straw-bale studio in his garden, which has now become his stunning workplace surrounded by trees, fields and birdsong. Matthew …
Council raises awareness of International Day Against Homophobia
Shropshire Council will be raising awareness and encouraging Shropshire residents to support International Day Against Homophobia on Thursday 17 May 2012.
Share your views about Weston Rhyn at a special event
Shropshire Council is issuing a call for between 20 and 30 local people to take part in a one-off event, to be held at the Village Institute in Bronygarth Road in Weston Rhyn on the evening of Wednesday 4 July …
New places to recycle your unwanted electrical items
People in Shropshire can now recycle their unwanted small electrical items at 16 locations in Shropshire.
Major housing and employment land proposals: meetings in Shifnal, Oswestry, Albrighton and Cleobury Mortimer
More meetings are taking place for people to have their say on preferred sites for thousands of new homes, and employment land, across Shropshire. Shropshire Council has been talking to town and parish councils over the past couple of years about which …
Bishop’s Castle car club
Bishop’s Castle residents and business people are invited to find out about plans for a car club in the town at an event on Saturday 26 May 2012. There is a drop-in session from 4pm-7pm, with a short talk at …
Energy-saving plans to change streetlighting move forward
Plans are moving forward to save energy and cut down on light pollution by upgrading streetlights so they can switch themselves off in the middle of the night. Shropshire Council approved proposals to convert 70% of its streetlights to ‘part-night …
Café Saffron wins curry competition
Mohammed Samsul Islam from Café Saffron in Shrewsbury was today awarded the prestigious title of Shropshire Council Curry Chef of the Year 2012.
Local Nature Partnership to be formed
A range of organisations are working together to develop a bid to secure funding to form a Local Nature Partnership.
News from our partners
From time to time we will be publishing news stories on Shropshire Newsroom from our partner organisations. The following is from England Illegal Money-Lending Team: Advice on avoiding loan sharks during Shropshire campaign Shropshire residents will be able to seek advice …
Digital photography workshops in Castlefields in Shrewsbury
There will be digital photography workshops for beginners at Castlefields Cyber Café, Shrewsbury every Monday from next Monday (21 May 2012). The workshops will run from 2pm to 4pm, with refreshments provided. Anyone is welcome to attend and support is available …
Travel share scheme launched at Bishop Hooper School
Families at Bishop Hooper School are joining together to share the car journey to school. The school, which opened on its new site in Ashford Carbonell in 2011, has some pupils who are not eligible for school transport and who live …
Newly-refurbished Severn Centre in Highley to reopen this month
The newly-refurbished Severn Centre in Highley will reopen later this month (Friday 25 May 2012), after being awarded £45,000 under Shropshire Council’s Market Towns Revitalisation Programme (MTRP). The centre will be officially reopened by Philip Dunne MP at 11am. The …
Much Wenlock Museum sees big increase in visitor numbers
Much Wenlock Museum is extremely proud to announce a significant increase in visitor numbers since its major refurbishment.
Refurbishment of Castle Square Car Park retaining wall in Ludlow
Major work to refurbish the length of the Ludlow Town Wall which retains Castle Square Car Park, behind the properties known as Knole Lodge and Spinnaker, is due to start on Monday 14 May 2012.
Adult Learners Week 14 May – 18 May in Shropshire
Adult Learners Week is the UK’s annual festival of learning; inspiring adults all over the UK to discover how learning can make a positive difference to their lives. As part of Adult Leaners Week, Shropshire Broadplaces are taking the opportunity …
Ditherington Flax Mill Maltings in Shrewsbury secures initial Heritage Lottery Fund support
A bid for £12.1m of funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) to support the conservation and redevelopment of Shrewsbury’s historic Flax Mill Maltings has received initial support from the HLF. The bid was submitted by a partnership including Shropshire …
Northern Gateway scheme to be discussed at central planning committee
A scheme to enhance Shrewsbury’s ‘northern gateway’ is to be discussed at Shropshire Council’s central planning committee today (Thursday 10 May 2012). The scheme, which has received a great deal of support from local people, will cost around £1.6 million …
Fancy getting your photographs on our new website?
We are developing a new website which will be quicker and easier to use – and we would like your help to make it look great. The first section of the website to be revamped is the libraries section, and …
Emergency closure of Water Lane in Shrewsbury
Part of Water Lane in Shrewsbury was closed yesterday morning (Wednesday 9 May 2012) on an emergency basis after significant cracking was discovered in both the lane and the riverside wall which retains it. The decision to temporarily close the …
Can you give a child the best start in life? – Foster Care Fortnight starts 14 May
Can you help make a positive life changing difference to a child in need? Then come along to the one of several events throughout Shropshire during Foster Care Fortnight.
Olympic Torch lit in Greece today
The Olympic Torch has today (Thursday 10 May 2012) been lit in Olympia, Greece. It will arrive in the UK on 18 May 2012 for its 70-day journey through the UK.
It’s Compost Awareness Week
Shropshire Council alongside its contractor Veolia Environmental Services (UK) Ltd is working in partnership with national environmental charity Garden Organic and local volunteers to mark International Compost Awareness Week 2012. Compost Awareness Week is celebrated around the world until Saturday …
Dog walkers targeted at St Laurence’s Garden of Rest in Ludlow
Shropshire Council’s streetscene team are undertaking awareness sessions around the garden of rest in Ludlow, following an increase in reports of dog fouling in the area. The awareness sessions aim to promote responsible dog ownership and ask the public to …
Shropshire See and Hear Exhibition 2012
The See and Hear Exhibition 2012 is taking place today (Wednesday 16 May 2012), organised by the See and Hear Partnership, which includes Shropshire Council.
Help us bring superfast broadband to Shropshire
The Connecting Shropshire campaign is working hard to improve broadband speeds across the county – and you can help make a crucial difference.
Funding available for groups in Much Wenlock and Shipton areas
Community groups from the Much Wenlock area are invited to bid for funds to support their activities through the Much Wenlock and Shipton Local Joint Committee (LJC). The deadline for funding applications is Friday 15 June 2012, and they will be …
Call for Highley LJC funding applications
Voluntary groups and organisations in Highley are invited to submit their funding applications to Highley Local Joint Committee (LJC) by Wednesday 13 June 2012, in time for the first round of funding allocations. Groups and organisations wishing to submit an application for …
Shrewsbury car club
Shrewsbury residents and business people are invited to a public meeting on Monday 28 May 2012 to find out about plans for a car club in the town. The meeting will be held at Coleham Primary School in Belle Vue, …
Arts Council England announces the outcomes of ‘Music Hub’ bids
Arts Council England (ACE) has announced the outcomes of bids from organisations over the country seeking funding to support music education through music services and partners. In Shropshire the lead organisation in the successful bid is the council’s Shropshire Music …
News from our partners
From time to time we will publish press releases from our partner organisations. Click here for the latest news.
A new dawn for public services in Shropshire
Over the next 12 months, Shropshire people will see a major change in the way public services are provided to local communities, following a bold decision by Shropshire Council. At its Annual Council meeting on Thursday (3 May 2012), councillors …
Negotiations still ongoing regarding Tern Valley Business Park
Shropshire Council would like to make clear that no decisions have yet been made regarding the potential sale of Tern Valley Business Park in Market Drayton. Negotiations are taking place between the council and a private investor, but talks are …
Shropshire to strengthen links with Armed Forces
Shropshire communities will have closer links with the Armed Forces in the county after an historic document was signed by Shropshire Council and its partner organisations.
Changes to waste collections
Shropshire Council and their waste management contractor Veolia Environmental Services (UK) Ltd are reminding residents about important changes to waste and recycling collections in the week beginning Monday 7 May 2012 (May Day). There are no waste collections taking place …
Event showcases award-winning education programme
Schoolpupils and teachers who helped Shropshire Council to develop an award-winning education programme marked its launch this week.
Celebrations for promotion-winning Shrewsbury Town
Shropshire residents will be able to celebrate Shrewsbury Town’s promotion to League One as the players are given an open-top bus parade through the streets of the county town on Sunday 6 May 2012. The players will leave the Greenhous …
Citizens Advice service gets extra funding in The Marches area
Hereford and Shropshire Citizens Advice Bureaux have been successful in a bid for extra Government funding to champion the needs of consumers in The Marches area. Through developing strong, joint working relationships at a local level between consumer organisations and …
Applications going to central planning committee on 10 May
The following planning applications will be considered by Shropshire Council’s central planning committee at its meeting at Shirehall, Shrewsbury on Thursday 10 May 2012, starting at 2pm. The meeting is open to the public and all are welcome to attend. To see …
Shrewsbury northern gateway enhancement to be discussed at The Severn Loop LJC
Shrewsbury residents will be asked to support plans to enhance the town’s ‘northern gateway’ at a meeting of The Severn Loop Local Joint Committee (LJC) tonight (Wednesday 2 May 2012) at 7pm at The Guildhall. The scheme, which went out …
Latest drop-in advice session in Bishop’s Castle
Residents of Bishop’s Castle have the chance to get advice on a range of issues at the next community advice session on Tuesday 8 May 2012. The event takes place between 11am and 12pm at the Grange Road residents meeting …
Doorstep scam targets Shrewsbury
Shropshire Council’s trading standards service is warning residents to be mindful of a scam dubbed the ‘Nottingham Knockers’ working in the area. This comes after a worried Shrewsbury resident described recent encounters with door-to -door sellers, who claimed to be on …
New health walk in Bridgnorth launched for national walking month
The Severn Strollers Walking for Health scheme is launching a new walk in Bridgnorth as part of National Walking Month in May. The new walk starts on Friday 4 May, from the Community Hub, Parish Rooms on St Johns Street …
Chance to share views about life in Weston Rhyn parish
People who live in and around the various settlements that make up the parish of Weston Rhyn are being invited to put their names forward to share their local knowledge about life in the area, at a special event on …
Cabinet to discuss policy on private hire executive vehicles
Shropshire Council’s Cabinet will this week (Wednesday 2 May 2012) consider changes to the policy on executive private hire vehicles which aim to add clarity, protect the safety of passengers and take on board the views of people in the …
New Shrewsbury health walks launched for national walking month
The Shrewsbury Walking for Health scheme is launching two new walks as part of National Walking Month in May 2012. The new walks will start from Louise House on Roman Road, Meole Brace at 10:30am every Tuesday starting from tomorrow …
Curry chefs to compete for prestigious Shropshire title
Curry chefs from restaurants and takeaways in Bridgnorth, Market Drayton, Shrewsbury and Dorrington will compete to be named the best in a Shropshire Council competition.
Your moment to shine – Olympic Torch Relay volunteer opportunities
Shropshire Council is offering people a once in a lifetime chance to be part of the Olympic Torch Relay when it passes through the county on Thursday 24 May and Wednesday 30 May 2012. The council is on the lookout …
New home compost bin scheme for Shropshire
Shropshire Council and their contractor Veolia Environmental Services (UK) Ltd are urging residents to bag a bargain home compost bin. The council has just signed up to a new national framework contract with UK manufacturer Straight to provide discount compost …
Love salad and hate waste
As summer arrives, Shropshire Council and their contractor Veolia are backing the Love Food Hate Waste campaign’s call to reduce the amount of fresh salad which gets thrown away in Shropshire. When the weather warms up, crunchy mixed salads are …
Twenty more places at this year’s Business Summit
Shropshire Council has today (Friday 26 April 2012) released 20 more tickets to next month’s Business Summit, after all places were booked. The Business Summit will take place on Monday 14 May 2012 from 5.30pm at Shrewsbury Town FC’s Greenhous Meadow, …
Bright future for Market Drayton market
Market Drayton market is set for investment and improvement after an established firm was awarded the contract to run the market. Shropshire Council invited tenders for the running of the market earlier in the year, and the contract has been …
East Oswestry walking and cycling bonanza
Over £500,000 worth of improvements for walking and cycling in east Oswestry were announced by Shropshire Council today (Thursday 26 April 2012). Some of the funding has already been used to complete a footpath link from Ascot Road to Harlech …
Streetscene team clean up Church Street in Church Stretton
Residents, visitors and tourists can now enjoy a cleaner Church Street in Church Stretton, following a successful deep clean carried out by Shropshire Council’s streetscene team on the morning of Wednesday 18 April 2012. Church Street was placed on the …
Shropshire building excellence awards announces winners
Over 100 people attended the second local building excellence awards held jointly by councils’ building control teams.
More time for people to get involved with major housing and development plans
The consultation into preferred sites for thousands of new homes and employment land is being extended to make sure everyone has time to make their views known.
Shropshire moves toward a new business-like approach for future Council services
Shropshire residents will see a fresh, innovative approach to how future council services are provided, should Shropshire Council’s Cabinet approve a series of proposals in reports published today (Wednesday 25 April 2012). This initiative is the culmination of a drive by …
Bridgnorth prepares for its annual History Week in May
The annual Bridgnorth History Week will be held at Bridgnorth Library from Monday 14 May -Saturday 19 May 2012. This year will see a packed programme including three guided walks, a talk by Sylvia Watts on Shropshire almshouses, and a …
Closure of Oswestry Leisure Centre’s main swimming pool this Thursday afternoon
The main swimming pool at Oswestry Leisure Centre will be closed for public use tomorrow afternoon (Thursday 26 April 2012) from 2pm onwards, reopening as normal on Friday (27 April 2012). The temporary closure is to allow the installation of …
Visitors get the opportunity to pitch their judging skills at Spring Show
Visitors are getting the opportunity to become show judges at Shropshire Council’s Acton Scott Historic Working Farm Spring Show this May bank holiday, from Saturday 5 May 2012 to Monday 7 May 2012. The farm will be celebrating products of …
HM The Queen to visit Shropshire for huge Diamond Jubilee celebration
HM The Queen is coming to Shropshire in July 2012 as part of her Diamond Jubilee Tour – and everyone in the county is invited. Along with His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh, The Queen is due to attend …
Applications going to north planning committee on 1 May 2012
The following planning applications will be considered by Shropshire Council’s north planning committee at its meeting at Edinburgh House in Wem on Tuesday 1 May 2012, starting at 2pm. The meeting is open to the public and all are welcome to …
Severn Loop LJC meeting on Wednesday 2 May
The Severn Loop Local Joint Committee (LJC) holds its next meeting on Wednesday 2 May 2012 at 7pm at The Guildhall in Shrewsbury. The Severn Loop LJC covers the areas of The Quarry and inside the Severn Loop, Coton Hill, …
Creative writing workshops
South Staffordshire and Shropshire Healthcare, alongside Shropshire Council’s library service, are offering people the chance to try creative writing next month (May 2012) as part of their ‘Writing the Future’ project. The free courses are open to everyone and require …
Bus service 125 continuing to be affected by major work in Highley
Due to water main replacement works being undertaken along Main Road and High Street in Highley, bus service 125 (Stourbridge-Bridgnorth) will continue to be subject to disruption for the next five weeks, until Friday 25 May 2012. When possible, roads …
New scooter clubs for under 7s in Dorrington and Rushbury
Two new Scooter Clubs have started up in Shropshire. One runs on Tuesdays from 3.30pm to 4.30pm at Dorrington Village Hall, and the other on Thursdays at the same time at Rushbury Village Hall. Both clubs are aimed at the …
Free swimming in the run up to the Olympics
Shropshire Council is offering residents the chance to swim for free in the run up to the Olympics at all council directly-managed pools during public sessions.
Business ideas sought to help grow Shropshire’s economy
Shropshire Council is calling for local businesses to reserve their place at the Business Summit next month (Monday 14 May 2012) for a chance to help shape and grow Shropshire’s economy. The Business Summit will take place from 5.30pm at Shrewsbury …
Craven Arms volunteers take part in the Big Tidy Up campaign
Officers from Shropshire Council joined forces with Craven Arms Volunteers for the Environment (CAVE) to pick up litter around Craven Arms on 16 April 2012.
Digital week marks 12 years of Family Information Service
Shropshire Council’s Family Information Service (FIS) will be launching a series of digital events to celebrate 12 years of service from Monday 30 April 2012 to Saturday 5 May 2012. Parents and carers will get the opportunity to link with other …
Repair work on A49 Shrewsbury bypass
Essential work is to be carried out to replace expansion joints at each end of the two bridges which carry the A49 Shrewsbury bypass over the River Severn between the Sundorne and Preston roundabouts. The work is due to start …
Snailbeach retaining wall investigation work
The Snailbeach to Stiperstones road will be closed in Snailbeach between 9am and 4.30pm for up to three days, starting on Wednesday 6 June 2012. The proposed closure is required to enable work to be carried out to investigate the …
Oswestry awarded national walking scheme status
Oswestry has been awarded the national ‘Walkers are Welcome’ status, putting it firmly on the map to become an activity hub of for walkers and outdoor enthusiasts. ‘Walkers are Welcome’ is a high status national ‘badge’ scheme for towns and …
Get your boots on as walking weekend launches new Shropshire Way route
Local residents and visitors to north Shropshire are encouraged to get their walking boots on, for the launch of the newly-extended Shropshire Way this weekend.
Food safety team dishes out top ratings to county businesses
Businesses from across Shropshire have achieved the top food hygiene rating in the latest round of inspections.
Sign of success in court case win
Shropshire Council has won a court case after magistrates backed a decision taken in line with national guidelines to help people to distinguish between Hackney carriage taxis and private hire vehicles.
Postponement of resurfacing work in Ludlow this Sunday morning
Old Street and Gravel Hill in Ludlow will now not be resurfaced this Sunday morning (22 April 2012) by Shropshire Council’s contractors Colas. This is due to forecast heavy rain. The remedial work by Colas will take place on a …
Myddle C of E Primary School makes a rapid response to Ofsted report
Staff and governors at a Shropshire primary school are working closely with the council to address the outcomes following a recent report from an Ofsted inspector. The Ofsted inspector, who visited Myddle C of E Primary School, has reported that …
Ditton Priors community embarks on exciting new approach to management of local assets
Shropshire Council has announced its hope to work with people in the Ditton Priors area on an innovative new approach to supporting local communities to be more sustainable.
New family room at Ludlow’s Rockspring Community Centre
Parents with children under five years old, carers, professionals and the wider community are all invited to visit Shropshire Council’s newly-developed Sure Start children’s centre family room at the Rockspring Community Centre in Ludlow.
Looking forward to improvements in leisure services: blog
Shropshire Council is in final negotiations with major national leisure services provider, Serco, to manage five of its leisure centres. In this blog, Cabinet member for leisure, Steve Charmley, says the deal will be good news for council tax payers, …
First phase of Shropshire Way North project now complete
The first section of the Shropshire Way in the north of the county has just been completed. The Oswestry Loop is the first section to be completed, and will take walkers from Llanymynech to Chirk Bank, onto Ellesmere and back …
A bright future for local supplies business
Shropshire Council, along with three other councils in the region, has today confirmed the sale of West Mercia Supplies (WMS) to The Consortium for Purchasing & Distribution Ltd. WMS is a longstanding, successful business, providing a valued service to a …
Applications going to planning committee – 24 April 2012
The following planning applications will be considered by Shropshire Council’s south planning committee at its meeting at Westgate in Bridgnorth on Tuesday 24 April 2012, starting at 2pm. The meeting is open to the public and all are welcome to attend. …
Dog warden covers wider area with mobile working
Shropshire Council is using new technology to improve services and enable staff to make better use of their time. A series of trials have been taking place with mobile devices, such as building control officers using tablet computers to access …
Improvements planned for London Road in Shrewsbury
Shropshire Council is inviting people who live or work in Shrewsbury, and students at Shrewsbury College, to give their views on proposed improvements on London Road, between the college and the Column roundabout. The proposals include road surfacing, new zebra …
Cast iron cookware developed at Netherton Foundry near Ironbridge
Backing onto the Severn Valley Railway in south east Shropshire sits a company specialising in the production of slow cookers and tagines, where handles are lovingly made by a Shropshire craftsman from local oak and the iron cast in neighbouring Dudley, resulting …
Council names Serco as the preferred bidder for new leisure services contract
At their meeting on 18 April Shropshire Council’s Cabinet approved the recommendation to select Serco as its preferred bidder to manage five of its leisure centres.
Buses on the agenda at LJC meeting in Bayston Hill
Another Bayston Hill Local Joint Committee (LJC) meeting is being held on Thursday 19 April 2012 at 7pm at Oakmeadow CE Primary School. Bayston Hill’s bus service will feature on the agenda at this meeting, with a representative from Arriva coming …
Resurfacing work in Ludlow this Sunday
Old Street and Gravel Hill in Ludlow will be resurfaced this Sunday morning (20 April 2012) by Shropshire Council’s contractors Colas between 8am and 12.30pm, which may lead to slight traffic delays. A temporary diversion route will be set up …
International Cartoon Festival touches down in Shrewsbury
Shrewsbury town centre will once again host the vibrant International Cartoon Festival, with the main weekend of activities running this week from Wednesday 18 April 2012 -Saturday 21 April 2012. Pre-activities start on Wednesday with a free workshop at the DASH (Disability …
Extra car parking for Shrewsbury Town match tonight
Shropshire Council is throwing its support behind Shrewsbury Town’s promotion bid by opening up a free car park again for tonight’s (Tuesday 17 April 2012) rearranged home match against Port Vale. The council’s Park and Ride car park at Meole …
Walking for Health leader training event in Oswestry
Enthusiatic walkers, or people who just generally love the outdoors, are invited to come to a Walking for Health (WfH) voluntary walk leaders training event on Friday 27 April 2012 at Castle View, Oswestry. Organised by Shropshire Council’s Walking for …
Repair work to be carried out at Burway Bridge in Ludlow
Coronation Avenue on the B4361 road in Ludlow will be closed to traffic for up to three days starting on Wednesday 6 June 2012. Burway Bridge, which crosses the River Corve, was built in 2008, after the previous bridge had been …
Sports club information evenings in Shropshire
Shropshire Council’s leisure development team is running a series of information evenings for sports clubs throughout the county from Tuesday 24 April 2012 to Wednesday 2 May 2012. These are: Tuesday 24 April – Oswestry Cricket Club Wednesday 25 April – …
Smile High Trail provides a taster for International Cartoon Festival
Local residents, families and visitors will be able to get a glimpse of what’s in store at this year’s Shrewsbury International Cartoon Festival this week as local shops and businesses exhibit a host of cartoon art throughout the town. The …
Children’s centre rated good
Shropshire Council’s Sure Start children’s centre for the Bishop’s Castle area has been judged as “good” by Government inspectors.
Donate unwanted furniture
Shropshire Council and their contractor Veolia Environmental Services (UK) Ltd are working in partnership with local charities, Shropshire Housing Alliance and South Shropshire Furniture Scheme, to encourage residents to donate household items like furniture, white goods, small electrical items, crockery, …
Tips on saving money and healthy living at community event
Advice on saving money and leading healthy lives on a budget will be on offer at a community event in north Shropshire next week. Shropshire Council’s Sure Start children’s centres are working in partnership with Whitchurch CE Infant School to …
Get together next week with Gusto
Anyone who would like to find out more about how they can get involved in new activities and meet new people is urged to come along to an event next week in Shrewsbury. This month’s Third Thursday Get-Together will offer …
Major housing and employment land proposals – get involved
Public events are taking place about potential sites for major housing and employment development over the coming weeks and months. Shropshire needs thousands of new homes and new employment land to help create jobs, and a consultation is under way to talk …
Silver surfers are urged to take part in Spring Online at Shrewsbury Library
As part of Digital Unite’s award-winning campaign, Spring Online, budding silver surfers are being urged to sign up for one of their 30-minute taster sessions being held on Thursday 26 April 2012 at Shrewsbury Library. This national campaign gives older people …
Oswestry event on next steps in adult social care
A public consultation event will take place in Oswestry next week on supporting people to use personal budgets to choose which adult social care services best suit their needs, focusing on this approach in daytime support. Consultation is currently taking …
Shropshire Council steps up crackdown on dog fouling
Shropshire Council has stepped up its enforcement patrols of public areas across the county following increased reports from local people of owners not clearing up after their dogs. Dog owners are required by law to clean up after their dog; …
Cabinet to recommend a new leisure services provider
Shropshire Council’s Cabinet will meet next week (Wednesday 18 April 2012) to recommend a new leisure services contractor to manage five of its leisure centres in the county, as part of a new approach to service delivery. The report recommends that …
Council clamps down on drivers who refuse to pay fines
Drivers who consistently refuse to pay penalty charge notices are being warned they face having their vehicles seized. Shropshire Council is taking a tough stance on ‘persistent evaders’ of fines, and action was taken recently to remove vehicles belonging to …
Families in the picture on Facebook
Shropshire Council’s Family Information Service (FIS) is calling on people to put themselves forward as their Facebook Family of the Month. Followers of the service on Facebook were asked what they might like to see on the page, and in …
A new facelift for Shrewsbury
Following last Thursday (5 April 2012)’s Central Area Planning Committee, Shropshire Council has given the go-ahead for a new look and significant financial boost to Shrewsbury town centre. An application to redevelop sections of the Riverside, Pride Hill and Charles …
New leisure centre changes will mean more efficient services
Shropshire Council has been working closely with Teme Leisure over the last few months to ensure that the four leisure centres it operates continue to offer high quality services, despite reduced funding from the council as part of its wider …
Official opening of Much Wenlock Museum
Much Wenlock Museum was officially opened on Thursday 12 April 2012 by John Penrose MP, Minister for Tourism and Heritage.
Campaign launched to bring better broadband to Shropshire
Come and pledge your support for bringing better broadband to every corner of our county.
Discover your Much Wenlock this Easter weekend
Residents and visitors to Shropshire will soon have a new way to explore the county and its historical treasures. With the help of funding from Arts Council England and the Rural Development Programme for England, Shropshire Council has been working with …
More meetings arranged for housing and development site proposals
Public events are taking place about potential sites for major housing and employment development over the coming weeks and months. Shropshire needs thousands of new homes and new employment land to help create jobs, and a consultation is under way to talk …
Tips for wasting less food this Easter
Easter offers the perfect opportunity to think about making the most of the food we buy, and Shropshire Council is offering tips and advice on how to waste less at this time of year. Each year in Britain we throw …
Easter recycling reminder
Shropshire residents are being urged by Shropshire Council and its waste management contractor Veolia Environmental Services (UK) Ltd to choose chocolate eggs with recyclable packaging, and help reduce the amount of waste created this Easter. Each year across the UK …
Shropshire businesses awarded £84,000 worth of funding
The Shropshire and Herefordshire Business Enterprise Fund has awarded a staggering £84,000 of grants to 24 businesses, creating 16 jobs and nine new businesses. Projects supported to date have included the creation of mezzanine floors, commercial printing presses, and purchases …
Cabinet agrees school admissions arrangements for 2013/14
Shropshire Council’s Cabinet today (Wednesday 4 April 2012) agreed the schools admission policy for 2013/14 after discussing and taking on board views shared during consultation. Councils are required to determine admission and appeal arrangements before the school year in which …
Changes to waste and recycling collections this Easter
Shropshire Council and its waste management contractor Veolia Environmental Services (UK) Ltd are reminding residents about important changes to waste and recycling collections in the week beginning 9 April 2012 (Easter Monday). Crews are working as normal on Good Friday …
Grant sees Bridgnorth business expand
Despite the talk of recession and economic gloom, Bridgnorth Print Services are showing the confidence that they have in the local business community by investing in over £30,000 worth of new print machines. This has been made possible with the …
Spring scavenger hunt at Severn Valley Country Park
Spring is a magnificent time to enjoy Severn Valley Country Park, so come and enjoy the school holidays by joining a Shropshire Council ranger on an exciting scavenger hunt at the park on Wednesday 11 April 2012 starting at 1.30pm through to …
Applications going to central planning committee – 5 April 2012
The following planning applications will be considered by Shropshire Council’s central planning committee at its meeting at Shirehall, Shrewsbury on Thursday 5 April 2012, starting at 2pm.
Follow the council’s decisions as they happen this Wednesday (4 April 2012)
You can keep up to date with Shropshire Council’s Cabinet meetings from the comfort of your own home – or indeed wherever you are – by following the council’s live twitter updates. The decisions and discussions at Cabinet meetings are …
Shropshire Council looks forward to a bright future for the county
Through starting to make fundamental changes in the way it delivers its services, the council has balanced its budget for 2011/12.
New highways contract
A new six-year contract to maintain the roads and deliver streetscene services across Shropshire started yesterday (Sunday 1 April 2012). Ringway was selected as the preferred bidder from a shortlist of five at Shropshire Council’s Cabinet meeting on Wednesday 16 …
Free extra hour in council car parks for Blue Badge holders
Blue Badge holders in Shropshire could get an extra hour of free parking in Shropshire Council’s car parks, if approved by the council’s Cabinet this week (Wednesday 4 April 2012). This follows a review of the council’s approach to parking charges …
Community wildlife group and schoolpupils help enhance Hinstock local habitat
A local community has been planting 400 metres of native species-rich hedgerow around Hinstock, as part of Shropshire Council’s “Your Natural Heritage” project.
Cartoons fly high in Shrewsbury Market Hall
The first exhibition to mark this year’s Shrewsbury International Cartoon Festival opens in Shrewsbury Market Hall on Friday 6 April 2012. “Flights of Fancy”, which follows the festival theme of flying, features nearly 100 original cartoons and quality prints specially …
Community group encourage investment for Neen Sollars historic mill
A community group in Cleobury country is seeking investors to help return the historic Tetstill Mill in Neen Sollars to the harnessing of power from the River Rea.
Wanted – volunteer drivers
Shropshire Council is looking for volunteer drivers to help provide a vital service to local people. The Community Car Scheme and Voluntary Car Scheme have been managed by the council’s passenger transport services for a number of years, providing an …
Local people go the extra mile for Sport Relief
Over 500 local people turned out in force on Sunday 25 March 2012 at the Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Mile in Ludlow and Shrewsbury. People of all ages were sponsored to walk, run or hop one, three or six miles. The …
Perfect portions this summer
If you are planning on inviting family or friends round for a barbecue this summer, knowing how much food to cook for a crowd can be tricky. So Shropshire Council is encouraging residents to save money by using the free online …
Shropshire’s opportunity to join Queen Elizabeth II Field Challenge
Shropshire Council’s Cabinet will be asked to approve the designation of 23 recreational sites on Wednesday 4 April 2012, as part of a national campaign to mark Her Majesty The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and the London Olympics in 2012. The …
The Grange and Sundorne secondary schools in Shrewsbury plan closer links
Two Shrewsbury secondary schools will work closer together in the future as governors look to establish a federation to improve educational opportunities for pupils. The Grange and Sundorne schools already have well-established links, and governors are now proposing a formal …
Encompass interactive website goes live
Encompass digital dance project is connecting young people across the world and getting them dancing. The project is part of Dancing for the Games, which is inspired by London 2012 and part of the Cultural Olympiad in the West Midlands. …
Join the cycle ride to Shrewsbury Town v Aldershot
Shropshire Council’s Cycle Shrewsbury team is encouraging people to cycle to the Shrewsbury Town v Aldershot game on Saturday 31 March 2012. The led cycle ride will set off from outside Woodfield and St George’s Schools in Woodfield Road in …
Next steps in adult social care
The second of three public consultation events will take place this week on supporting people to use personal budgets to choose which adult social care services best suit their needs, focusing on this approach in daytime support.
Save money on Shrewsbury’s Park and Ride service this April
Shropshire Council is offering a special offer group ticket on its Shrewsbury’s Park and Ride service, running throughout April 2012.
Be a part of the Olympic Torch Relay – volunteer opportunities
Shropshire Council is offering people a once in a lifetime chance to be part of the Olympic Torch Relay when it passes through the county.
A feast of Easter activities at Shropshire’s favourite farm
Easter weekend at Acton Scott Historic Working Farm sees a range of additional activities and seasonal happenings from Friday 6 April 2012 to Monday 9 April 2012.
Royal Shrewsbury Hospital playing a key part in new regional trauma network
More lives are expected to be saved by a new trauma care network that was launched across the West Midlands today (Monday 26 March 2012). The arrangements will see hospitals across the region working together to provide the best care …
Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee welcomes capital funding announcement
Councillors from Shropshire Council and Telford & Wrekin Council have welcomed news that the local NHS has secured the capital funding needed for a major reconfiguration programme. The councillors, who work together as the Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee …
Picture Shropshire: volunteering for the county’s heritage
History and photography enthusiasts will have an opportunity to talk to Volunteering for Shropshire’s Heritage Project Team at Shrewsbury Library on Tuesday 27 March 2012 about the photographic collection and other exciting activities happening over the next three years and beyond. …
Latest drop-in advice sessions announced for Bishop’s Castle
The dates for April 2012 and May 2012’s community advice sessions for Bishop’s Castle have now been confirmed as Tuesday 3 April 2012 and Tuesday 8 May 2012. The events are a way for members of the community to get …
Get Wild and Free at Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre this Easter
Children and families are invited to Onny Meadows at the Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre this Easter half-term holiday.
Festival draws top cartoonists to Shrewsbury
This year’s highly-acclaimed Shrewsbury International Cartoon Festival will see a host of cartoonists and caricaturists descend on the town for the Cartoonists Live weekend.
Flexible working to improve council services
The council is starting to work in different ways to meet the changing needs of Shropshire residents while saving money and improving efficiency.
Public meetings coming up to discuss major housing plans
A series of public events about potential sites for major housing and employment development will take place over the coming weeks and months. Shropshire needs thousands of new homes and new employment land to help create jobs, and a consultation …
Protecting the public at the forefront of licensing work
Protecting the public is at the forefront as Shropshire Council continues to take action to ensure that customers can benefit from the highest standards in the taxi and private hire vehicle industry. The work of the council’s licensing team and …
Hackney carriage taxi and private hire vehicle licence fees agreed
Shropshire Council’s Strategic Licensing Committee yesterday (Wednesday 21 March 2012) discussed the recent consultation on hackney carriage taxi and private hire licences, and agreed the fees for 2012/13 as recommended. For further details of the recommendation click here.
Consultation on private hire executive vehicles
Councillors yesterday (Wednesday 21 March 2012) agreed to consult on changes to Shropshire Council’s policy on executive private hire vehicles to take on board the views of people in the industry. The proposed changes aim to ensure that the signage for …
Extended opening hours at household recycling centres
Shropshire Council and their contractor Veolia Environmental Services (UK) Ltd are reminding residents about extended opening hours at the Household Recycling Centres (HRCs). Shropshire Council runs five HRCs. These are manned facilities where people can drive in and unload large quantities …
New walking and cycle path for Oswestry
Work starts on site at Harlech Road, Oswestry on Monday 26 March 2012 to complete a missing link in the local walking and cycle network. A path was provided linking Ascot Close and Ascot Road with Henley Drive when the …
New recycling facility for Bridgnorth residents
A new household recycling facility in Faraday Drive, Bridgnorth opened its doors yesterday (Tuesday 20 March 2012). The new recycling centre is run by Veolia Environmental Services on behalf of Shropshire Council. The new facility consists of a recycling centre, …
Successful deep clean along Welsh Street and Market Square in Bishop’s Castle
Residents and visitors can now enjoy a cleaner Welsh Street and Market Square in Bishop’s Castle following a successful deep clean by Shropshire Council’s environmental maintenance team last month (Thursday 23 February 2012). Prior to the deep clean, posters and …
School celebrates positive Ofsted report
Staff, governors and pupils at Dorrington CE Primary School are celebrating an extremely positive report by Ofsted inspectors. The school, near Shrewsbury, was visited by inspectors in February 2012, who gave the school an overall rating of ‘good’. Inspectors were …
A458 reopen near the Weeping Cross roundabout in Shrewsbury
The A458 near the Weeping Cross roundabout in Shrewsbury was reopened at 10pm on Tuesday 20 March 2012, following closure for a few hours due to a road traffic collision.
Spring has sprung – get ready to home compost
As sunny spring has sprung, Shropshire Council and their contractor Veolia Environmental Services (UK) Ltd are reminding residents about the benefits of home composting. Spring is when the garden starts to wake up and is a busy time for gardeners …
Major improvements for rail in Shrewsbury
Shropshire Council welcomes the news that £9.8million is to be spent in Shropshire as part of a package to upgrade the railway line from Chester and Wrexham to Shrewsbury.
Oswestry Back 2 Netball project
The National Governing Body for Netball, England Netball, have created a Back 2 Netball programme that provides a gentle introduction to the sport for female players over the age of 16. Sessions are coach-led and cover basic skill development and …
Clarification on reports about “free gym passes for drug users”
Shropshire Council is not proposing to give drug users free membership to sports and gym facilities, and while recent stories in the media have tried to make the background clear, a number of people have contacted the council to express their concerns …
Free parking for Shrewsbury Town fans tonight (Tuesday)
The Meole Brace Park and Ride car park will be open until 11pm tonight (Tuesday 20 March 2012) for people going to the Shrewsbury Town football match. Shropshire Council decided to allow fans to use the car park for free …
Time for a spring clean
Ahead of the official start of Spring – the astronomical Spring officially starts tomorrow, Tuesday 20 March 2012 – Shropshire Council and their contractor Veolia Environmental Services (UK) Ltd are urging residents who want to declutter to think about recycling …
Shrewsbury Northern Gateway enhancement consultation
Shropshire Council is proposing a number of changes to the area around Shrewsbury Station and the Chester Street gyratory. See the proposals and plans here.
Warning about poisonous bracelets
Shropshire residents are being urged to be aware of bracelets made from red Jequirity beans, which have the potential to cause health problems if swallowed. It is not thought that any bracelets have been sold in Shropshire, but 36 retailers …
Former Member of Youth Parliament wins prestigious scholarship to the United States
A former Member of Shropshire’s Youth Parliament is celebrating after being offered an auspicious scholarship in America.
Two pupils from William Brookes School are given their moment to shine
Two students from William Brookes School have today (Monday 19 March 2012) been chosen to carry the Olympic Torch as it makes its journey from Greece to the London 2012 Olympic Games. Saffron Allen 16-year-old Saffron from Ironbridge has been …
Rachel is given her moment to shine
A senior duty manager from Shrewsbury’s Quarry Swimming and Fitness Centre has today (Monday 19 March 2012) been chosen to carry the Olympic Torch as it makes its journey from Greece to the London 2012 Olympic Games. Rachel Harvey has been …
Council confirms the streets the Olympic Flame will be carried along
The streets the Olympic Flame will travel down, and the names of the inspirational Torchbearers, have been announced today (Monday 19 March 2012).
Cabinet to discuss public health plans
Councillors are to receive an update on plans for the transfer of public health work currently undertaken by Shropshire County Primary Care Trust (PCT) to Shropshire Council in 2013. At a meeting on Wednesday 21 March 2012 Shropshire Council’s Cabinet …
Shropshire Council wins award for innovative education programme
Shropshire Council has won a prestigious national award recognising the quality and effectiveness of its relationship and sex education programme for schools.
Shrewsbury town guides awarded Green Badges
A group of individuals have recently received prestigious Green Badges for guides at a recent event in Shrewsbury. The 11 guides received their coveted awards in a recent award ceremony at Rowley’s House organised by Shropshire Council’s Visitor Information Centre. The …
Call for funding applications to Cleobury Rural LJC
Voluntary groups and organisations from Cleobury Rural areas are being invited to submit their funding applications by Wednesday 25 April 2012, in time for the Local Joint Committee’s (LJC) funding allocation. Cleobury Rural LJC is made up of from Shropshire Councillors …
Volunteers flock to help local play area development in Albrighton
Volunteers in Albrighton and a local Shropshire firm have shown their dedication to local causes by volunteering to work with a community group at Abney Avenue play area in Albrighton. The group known as PARC (Park And Residents Committee) was …
Share your views on next steps in adult social care
The first of three public consultation events will take place next week on supporting people to use personal budgets to choose which adult social care services best suit their needs, focusing on this approach in daytime support. Consultation is taking …
Sport Relief set to hit Shropshire
The Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Mile in Shrewsbury and Ludlow is just two weeks away and Sunday 25 March 2012 is set to be an unforgettable day. Loads of local people have already signed up, but there’s still time to bag …
Say no to junk mail
Shropshire Council and their waste contractor Veolia are celebrating the success of a campaign to reduce the amount of unwanted mail that residents get. Over five billion items of direct mail are sent to UK households each year. This means …
Plans for Shrewsbury’s northern gateway to go on display
Shrewsbury residents and visitors can give their views on plans to enhance the town’s ‘northern gateway’, when they go on display for the first time.
My Friends Online week in Shropshire
My Friends Online week takes place Monday 19 March 2012 – Sunday 25 March 2012, to help people in later life discover the social side of the Internet. There will be opportunities for those new to computers to send emails, as …
Launch of teenage rape prevention campaign
The Home Office has recently launched a Teenage Rape Prevention Campaign, which aims to prevent teenagers from becoming victims and perpetrators of sexual violence and abuse. The Teenage Rape Prevention Campaign, launched across the UK, encourages teenagers to rethink their views …
Hackney carriage taxi and private hire vehicle licence fees
Shropshire Council’s Strategic Licensing Committee is to discuss the recent consultation on Hackney carriage taxi and private hire licences and agree the fees for 2012/13. Shropshire Council faces a challenge in balancing the need to cover the costs of issuing …
A458 at Cressage now reopen
The A458 at Cressage has now reopened to traffic, as of midday Wednesday 14 March 2012. It was closed earlier this morning due to a road traffic accident, for clear up and investigation work.
Parking team among the best in the country
The team responsible for ensuring Shropshire Council’s car parks and on-street parking spaces are safe and well run for drivers has been honoured at a national awards ceremony.
Kitchen caddies and liners in north Shropshire
In a bid to encourage the recycling of food waste, Shropshire Council has recently made available for purchase kitchen caddies and liners to make recycling food waste cleaner and easier. All types of food waste have been accepted in the …
Keeping your computer healthy at Knockin
There will be a session running at Knockin Assembly Rooms on Tuesday 20 March 2012 called “Keeping Your Computer Healthy”. The workshop will demonstrate how to keep your computer working at its best, as well as ensuring programmes and security …
Planning for our future – get involved
Shropshire needs thousands of new homes and new employment land to help create jobs, and we want to talk about the plans for your area. Shropshire Council has already been talking to town and parish councils over the past couple of …
New Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery taking shape
Councillors and a local MP have been given a tour of the new museum and art gallery which is taking shape at the old Music Hall.
Partnership urges motorists to belt up
The Safer Roads Partnership and West Mercia Police are launching a new campaign to encourage motorists to belt up. The vast majority of people habitually ‘belt up’ as soon as they get into a car, but many people, especially those …
New homes and employment land up for discussion
A major consultation is under way on preferred sites for thousands of new houses and new employment land across Shropshire.
Favourite farm opens its gates for 2012
Shropshire Council-run Acton Scott Historic Working Farm opens for the 2012 season on Tuesday 3 April 2012.
New activities and groups set up with Gusto
An event this week in Shrewsbury will offer the chance to find out about activities and groups being set up as part of a new project, ranging from drama and circle dancing to hand massages and pampering. People are invited …
Shropshire Council Chairman to host annual civic service
Chairman of Shropshire Council, Malcolm Pate, will host the council’s annual civic service this Sunday (11 March 2012) at Shrewsbury Abbey. The service will be led by the Bishop of Shrewsbury, The Right Reverend Mark Rylands, and the Vicar of …
Offenders help out on a community garden project in Shrewsbury
Offenders from Her Majesty’s Prison and Young Offenders Institution (HMP & YOI) Stoke Heath near Market Drayton have just started work on a project in Shrewsbury to tidy up and improve the Hermitage Community Garden in Mountfields. Supported by Shropshire Council’s …
Amount spent on consultants published by the council
Shropshire Council is introducing a new approach to the way it hires external consultants, to ensure it gets the best possible value from their services. The council wants to set a ceiling to limit this spending, and ensure a consistent …
Waste less this Mother’s Day
Shropshire Council and their contractor Veolia are urging residents to remember that, if they are showering their mums with gifts this Mother’s Day (Sunday 18 March 2012), then think about the waste that can result from this. Reduce – there are ways of …
Shropshire Proms and fireworks spectacular in Oswestry this summer
Plans have been announced for an outdoor Proms concert, led by the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra, at Oswestry Showground on Friday 1 June 2012.
Longden, Ford and Rea Valley LJC on 29 February
Residents of Longden, Ford and Rea Valley were pleased to hear at the Local Joint Committee (LJC) meeting on Wednesday 29 February 2012 that each parish council was to receive a grant of £1,000. It was agreed unanimously that the …
Burnell and Severn Valley LJC on 5 March
Last Monday (5 March 2012) the Burnell and Severn Valley Local Joint Committee (LJC) was hosted at Cound Guildhall. This historically important building has been in the care of Trustees since 2004, since which time they have carried out a great …
Help give Much Wenlock a spring clean
People living in Much Wenlock are being encouraged to take part in a community litter pick in the town on Wednesday 21 March 2012. The litter pick has been organised by Shropshire Council’s environmental maintenance team as part of the …
Aquajog at the Quarry Swimming and Fitness Centre in Shrewsbury
The Quarry Swimming and Fitness Centre in Shrewsbury is thrilled to announce the arrival of Aquajog later this month (Tuesday 20 March 2012). Aquajog is a brand new 30-minute class offering customers something a little bit different. Fusing aqua jogging with …
Footpaths in Oswestry get a spring clean
Shropshire Council’s streetscene team is working with the Probation Service Community Pay Back Team to uncover some overgrown footpaths in the Oswestry area. Since January 2012, the Community Pay Back Team have cleared over 200 metres of footpaths that were …
New zebra crossing for Market Drayton
Shropshire Council and its consultants Mouchel are busy widening the pavement and installing a new, raised zebra crossing on Stafford Street in Market Drayton to make the journey to Grove School safer. Work started on site last week (Monday 27 …
Little Pixies Nursery is open and ready for little elves
Two working mothers, Deb Lovell and Sarah Felkin, have opened a day nursery for children from 12 weeks to pre-school ages which offers a nurturing with nature culture within a rural setting. The nursery is situated one mile from the …
Consultation begins on next steps in adult social care
Shropshire Council’s Cabinet today (Wednesday 7 March 2012) received an update on how people are being supported to use personal budgets to choose which adult social care services best suit their needs, and agreed to consult on the next steps. …
Ellesmere Local Joint Committee meeting next Tuesday
Ellesmere Local Joint Committee (LJC) have selected The Boathouse in Ellesmere as an ideal location to host their meeting next week (Tuesday 13 March 2012 at 7pm), which focuses on the local tourism offer as the main agenda item. The committee, …
Work to re-lay sunken bricks along the Bull Ring in Ludlow
Shropshire Council will start work next week (Monday 12 March 2012) to re-lay some of the sunken bricks along the Bull Ring in Ludlow. This essential work, which is expected to take around two days to complete, will mean that …
Closure of Ludford Bridge in Ludlow for essential work
Essential work on the Ludford Bridge in Ludlow is due to start later this month (Sunday 25 March 2012) as part of Shropshire Council’s commitment to investing in the county’s bridges. The entire section of Ludford Bridge will be closed …
Broseley litter pick is a success
Volunteers collected 14 bags of rubbish and 880kg of dirt and leaves during a community litter pick in Broseley last month (Wednesday 22 February 2012). The litter pick was organised by Shropshire Council’s environmental maintenance team as part of the …
New drainage channel covers in Ludlow
New drainage channel covers have recently been installed along Castle Street in Ludlow after the old ones deteriorated.
Oswestry Youth Cafe runs successful alcohol awareness project
Oswestry Youth Cafe, a partner in the Oswestry Community Alcohol Partnership (Os-CAP), led by Shropshire Council’s Trading Standards Service, has been running a project to tackle underage drinking and alcohol-related anti-social behaviour. Through the Os-CAP, money from Oswestry’s Community Safety …
A new ‘one stop shop’ in Oswestry Library
Shropshire Council is working with other public and voluntary sector organisations in Oswestry to create a ‘one-stop shop’, located in Oswestry Library. Expected to be up and running by April 2012, this will provide customers with access to a wide …
Warning to timeshare owners
Shropshire Council’s trading standards officers are warning timeshare owners to be aware that they may not be protected under the new Timeshare Directive
Campaign boosts metal recycling in Oswestry
Oswestry residents have responded well to a metal recycling campaign organised by Shropshire Council and, as a result, are now helping to recycle an extra 23 tonnes of metal each year which saves money, energy and raw materials. The campaign …
Campaign boosts plastic bottle recycling in north Shropshire
Shropshire Council is celebrating the success of an externally-funded recycling campaign which has increased the amount of plastic bottles recycled in the north Shropshire area by almost 10%. At the start of 2011 the council was awarded funding from the …
Talks and walks at Church Stretton history day
New research shedding light on the history of Church Stretton will be revealed at a history day on Saturday 24 March 2012.
Shropshire teenage pregnancy rates at lowest in more than a decade
The number of teenage pregnancies in Shropshire is at its lowest in more than a decade, new figures have revealed.
Council wins crown court taxi appeal
Shropshire Council has won a court case which upholds a decision taken in the interests of public safety to refuse to grant a taxi licence, because the vehicle would not be used mostly in the county.
Extra car parking for Shrewsbury Town evening matches for rest of season
Shropshire Council is throwing its support behind Shrewsbury Town’s promotion bid by opening up a free car park for the remaining evening fixtures this season.
New group for families with children with disabilities or additional needs
A new family drop-in group has been launched in south Shropshire to support families with children up to five years old with disabilities or additional needs. Play Pals is being held as part of the wide range of services offered …
Driving lessons for William Brookes schoolpupils
A dozen pupils aged 15 and 16 years from William Brookes School in Much Wenlock will find out what it’s like to drive a car at a special event in Shrewsbury on Tuesday 27 March.
New research shows lots of potential to attract more tourists to Shropshire
New tourism research commissioned by Shropshire, Herefordshire and Telford and Wrekin has shown lots of potential for all the areas to attract more day visitors as well as short break visitors. The study was undertaken by Arkenford Leisure, a specialist tourism …
Work to start at Porthill footbridge in Shrewsbury
Essential work to repair and refurbish Porthill footbridge, which crosses the River Severn in Shrewsbury, is due to start on Monday 5 March 2012.
Swimming pool in Market Drayton to close for essential repairs
The swimming pool at Market Drayton Swimming Centre will be closed from Monday 12 March 2012 for around two weeks so that essential repairs can be carried out to stop it from leaking. The work will involve emptying the pool …
Get your roadworks and road closure alerts straight to your email
People can now get alerts about the latest roadworks and closures in the areas they are interested in straight to their email. Shropshire Council uses roadworks.org to inform residents about when and where roadworks and closures are taking place across …
Energy from used cooking oil enough to make over a quarter of a million cups of tea
Shropshire Council has been awarded a certificate in recognition of their efforts in collecting 1,100 litres of used cooking oil at their network of Household Recycling Centres (HRCs). The HRCs are operated by waste management contractor Veolia Environmental Services Ltd …
Morda mark making
Parents and carers will be able to seek advice at sessions in Morda run by Shropshire Council’s Sure Start children’s centre services, Morda Pre-School and Morda Primary School on supporting children up to five years old to develop their writing …
Energy from Waste appeal costs published by Shropshire Council
The cost of the appeal by Veolia over the decision by the council’s planning committee to refuse permission for an energy from waste plant to be built at Battlefield, near Shrewsbury, has been published today. Shropshire Council has provided the …
New policy on use of consultants
Shropshire Council is introducing a new approach to the way it hires external consultants, to ensure it gets the best possible value from their services. The council wants to set a ceiling to limit this spending, and ensure a consistent …
Burnell and Severn Valley LJC next Monday 5 March
Burnell and Severn Valley Local Joint Committee (LJC) would like to extend a warm invitation to residents in all of its 11 parishes to its next meeting on Monday 5 March 2012 at Cound Guildhall at 7.30pm. There will be an …
Potential sites for future development to be discussed
A major consultation is due to start in March 2012 on preferred sites for housing and employment development across Shropshire. The consultation follows a huge amount of work between Shropshire Council and local parish and town councils since April 2010, …
World Book Day comes to Shrewsbury Library
Shrewsbury Library is holding a special event for schools and nurseries on Thursday 1 March 2012 to celebrate this year’s World Book Day, highlighting the joys of reading to local children. The library is one of thousands across the UK …
Adult social care services in Shropshire – next steps
Shropshire Council’s Cabinet on Wednesday 7 March 2012 is to receive an update on how people are being supported to choose which adult social care services best suit their needs, and the proposed next steps in ensuring all individuals who …
Hope CE Primary School committed to improve in response to critical Ofsted report
Staff and governors at a Shropshire primary school are working with the council to address the outcomes of a recent report from Government inspectors. The Ofsted inspection, which took place at Hope CE Primary School, judged that whilst the majority …
Good progress made on care strategy shaped by feedback
Shropshire Council is ensuring that changes to adult social care services asked for by the people who use them, their carers, families and friends are being put into place.
Bishop’s Castle drop-in session to meet your local council, police and housing service teams
On Tuesday 6 March 2012 residents of Bishop’s Castle are being encouraged to drop into Enterprise House in the town between 11am and 12pm to meet local representatives of Shropshire Council, the police and South Shropshire Housing Association for a …
Events to tell all about Shropshire heritage project
People interested in Shropshire’s heritage are being invited to take part in a project that aims to help make the county’s history more accessible to all – and they can find out more at a series of events being held …
Council cracks down on poor school attendance
Shropshire Council has issued a warning to parents who fail to ensure their children attend school that they could face prosecution in the magistrates court. School attendance in Shropshire is above the national average – for the 2010/11 academic year, …
Fairtrade flag to travel across Shropshire in relay
A special flag is to travel around Shropshire by foot, bike, bus and even narrow boat as part of a relay being held to mark Fairtrade Fortnight 2012.
Spring photographic competition at Severn Valley Country Park
Do you consider yourself the next David Bailey? Is your passion heading outdoors with your camera? Are you always looking for that perfect picture? If so, Shropshire Council want to hear from you. 2012 marks the 20th anniversary of Severn …
Barker Street in Shrewsbury bus stops not operating until Wednesday
Bus stops on Barker Street in Shrewsbury will not be operating until Wednesday 29 February 2012 morning. This is due to pavement improvement work on Barker Street, which has led to the closure of the bus stops in this area for the remainder …
Some roads across Shropshire to be resurfaced over the next couple of months
Shropshire Council will resurface 13 different stretches of road across the county over the next couple of months, prolonging their life and limiting future repair work. The council has tendered these essential repairs together as one contract so that they …
Rapping robot to visit its 100th Shropshire school
Around 1,250 schoolpupils across Shropshire will be learning more about recycling next week when ‘Recycler’ the rapping robot tours 10 Shropshire schools.
Acton Scott given national audience in Radio Times
One of the council’s top museum attractions is being featured in the BBC’s Radio Times magazine – putting Shropshire in the homes of thousands of TV fans. Acton Scott Historic Working Farm is included in the magazine’s “TV Walks” special …
Broadband and affordable housing on the Loton and Tern LJC agenda
The development of superfast broadband in Shropshire will be on the agenda at the next meeting of the Loton and Tern Local Joint Committee (LJC) when it meets at Upton Magna Village Hall on Thursday 1 March 2012 at 7pm. …
Longden Ford and Rea Valley LJC next week
The next meeting of the Longden, Ford and Rea Valley Local Joint Committee (LJC) will be held on Wednesday 29 February 2012 at 7pm at Longden Village Hall (Arthur Swire Memorial Hall). At the meeting Kate Garner, Shropshire Council’s community action …
Streetscene team litter pick along A49
Over the last six weeks Shropshire Council’s streetscene south west team have been busy litter picking along the A49 verges and hedgerows.
Council approves savings for next two years
Shropshire Council has approved its budget savings for the next two financial years, as it continues work to save around £85 million over three years. Cost reductions of £42 million will already have been made by March this year, and …
Council tax frozen again
Shropshire Council is freezing its element of the council tax bill yet again to help householders who are feeling the squeeze.
Discover more about your family tree at council-run courses
Two short courses will be held at Ludlow Museum Resource Centre at the beginning of March 2012. Social history interpreter, Janet Bradley, will return to the collections centre to help keen family history enthusiasts branch out their family tree. This …
Start limbering up – Sport Relief is back and it’s coming to Shropshire
The Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Mile is back – and it’s coming to Shropshire. The county is set to host its third Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Mile on Sunday 25 March 2012 and needs local people to come together and show their …
Residents have fun making flags to welcome the Olympic Torch in Much Wenlock
Residents from Much Wenlock have been busy designing and making colourful flags which will be used to welcome the Olympic Flame when it visits the town on Wednesday 30 May 2012. Shropshire Council and artist Helen Davies hosted the flag …
Shropshire woman prosecuted for benefit fraud
A Shropshire woman has been prosecuted for benefit fraud following an investigation by Shropshire Council. Judith Blakeway, 74, of Kenley Road, Harley, appeared before Shrewsbury Magistrates on Friday 17 February 2012 charged with benefit fraud. The court heard the defendant …
Traffic lights in Shrewsbury now fixed
The traffic lights at the junction of Lower Claremont Bank and Bridge Street in Shrewsbury are now working properly again. A technical problem on Thursday afternoon (16 February 2012) led to some traffic disruption, as the lights were not working as efficiently …
Contraflow cycling on one way streets
Work has started in Shrewsbury town centre to allow contraflow cycling on short sections of one-way streets.
Traffic light problems in Shrewsbury
The traffic lights at the junction of Lower Claremont Bank and Bridge Street in Shrewsbury are currently not working properly, which is causing some congestion in the town centre. A piece of software which controls the lights depending on traffic …
Get involved with Cleobury Rural Local Joint Committee
Shropshire Council is encouraging local people to come along to their next Cleobury Rural Local Joint Committee (LJC) to talk about the issues that matter to them. The meeting will take place on Wednesday 29 February 2012 at 7pm at …
Warning about council tax rebanding calls
Shropshire Council is warning residents to be wary of any calls from companies claiming to be able to reduce their council tax bills. The council has received a number of enquiries from people who have been called by a company …
Give it some gusto
An event this week featuring everything from a 1940s-inspired band to juggling will give people an opportunity to share their thoughts on any activities they would like to get more involved in.
Eat healthily and save money: fortnight of events in Oswestry
A fortnight of fun events in east Oswestry will provide food for thought on healthy eating and how to waste less. A range of venues is working in partnership with Shropshire Council’s Sure Start children’s centre services, and waste management, teams …
Changes to voluntary and community sector outlined in video
A video explaining how voluntary and community groups are set to have more influence on local decisions than ever before is due to be ‘premiered’ at Oswestry Local Joint Committee (LJC) this week. The way councils work with the voluntary and …
Families enjoy fun day in north Shropshire
A fun day in north Shropshire gave families the chance to explore the play bus, enjoy circus performances and find out about support available to them.
What do your shoes say about you?
Do you want your feet to be famous? Paul Horton’s photographic installation called “The Feet of the West Midlands” is now showing at Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre until Monday 27 February 2012. The project is based on the theme of a …
Cooking up a paella in east Oswestry
Residents of Monkmoor Court and the surrounding area in Oswestry will be treated to a free lunch and cookery demonstration on Monday 20 February 2012. Shropshire Council’s landlord services team has organised the event in conjunction with the ‘Love Food …
Gobowen, Selattyn, St Martins and Weston Rhyn LJC to announce funding allocations
Residents of Gobowen, Selattyn, St Martins and Weston Rhyn are invited to attend a Local Joint Committee (LJC) meeting on Tuesday 14 February 2012 at All Saints Church Hall, Gobowen. The meeting will start at 7pm and look at issues …
Registration Service trials new opening hours at Royal Shrewsbury Hospital
Shropshire Council’s Registration Service is trialling late afternoon and early evening opening at their office based at the maternity unit at Royal Shrewsbury Hospital. The office is open for the registration of births by maternity inpatients only from 11.30am to 6.30pm …
Check out the rating this Valentine’s Day
Anyone planning to treat their loved one to a romantic meal this Valentine’s Day is reminded that the Food Hygiene Rating Scheme can help in making a decision on where to eat out. The scheme helps people to make a …
Join in the Broseley litter pick
People living in Broseley are being encouraged to take part in a community litter pick in the village on Wednesday 22 February 2012. The litter pick has been organised by Shropshire Council’s environmental maintenance team as part of the national …
Possible disruption due to snow
The Met Office is forecasting snow to fall in Shropshire on Thursday night (9 February 2012) and Friday morning (10 February 2012).
Flood information exhibition in Shifnal a great success
Around 150 people came to a very successful exhibition at Shifnal Village Hall on Tuesday 31 January 2012 to gather information and seek advice on flooding and insurance matters. The public were able to listen and then ask questions on subjects, …
Parents welcome new parking policy for school in Shrewsbury
A new school parking policy for parents dropping off and collecting their children from St Winefride’s Convent School in Belmont, Shrewsbury has been working well since it started early this year (2012). Just before and after school, Belmont had been experiencing …
Council drives forward solar photovoltaic panel installations to generate income
Shropshire Council’s Cabinet approved a plan this week which could earn the council substantial income in the next 25 years through generating electricity from sunlight. Councillors approved the £2.5 million investment in up to 30 solar photovoltaic (PV) installations, each of which …
Funding helps volunteers bring Shropshire’s hidden heritage to life
Shropshire Council’s museums and archives service are launching a cutting edge, exciting new project which offers a range of exciting and valuable opportunities.
Spring celebration in Cheswardine
A spring celebration will be held at Cheswardine Village Hall for families with children under five to enjoy a range of activities and find out more about the support Shropshire Council’s Sure Start children’s centre services can offer. The event …
Celebrating seven years of recycling in Shrewsbury
Shropshire Council is celebrating the seven year anniversary of their environmentally-friendly integrated waste management facility at Battlefield Enterprise Park, Shrewsbury. The facility was opened exactly seven years ago today (8 February 2005). The £4 million facility was built to provide …
New Members of Youth Parliament announced
A record number of young people turned out to vote for Shropshire’s new Members of Youth Parliament (MYPs).
International Cartoon Festival to tour Shropshire this summer
Shrewsbury’s International Cartoon Festival will be going on tour for the first time throughout Shropshire this year (2012).
New-look Much Wenlock Museum open for half-term next week
Much Wenlock Museum will be opening its doors for a full week this February half term from Monday 13 February to Saturday 18 February.
Bringing life and colour to a corner of Bridgnorth
Residents of Tasley Close in Bridgnorth have been expressing their delight at the gradual transformation of their cul-de-sac in recent months.
Celebrating a successful Holocaust Memorial Day event
Shropshire Council hosted its most successful event yet for Holocaust Memorial Day on Friday 27 January 2012 in the Council Chamber, Shirehall.
Cabinet to discuss out-of-area taxi policy
Work to protect the public by ensuring that hackney carriage taxis are operating in line with recent case law will be discussed by Shropshire Council’s Cabinet next week. Councillors will be asked to consider responses to a consultation, and the …
Feedback continues to shape future of adult social care
People receiving care and support from Shropshire Council are continuing to be asked for their views as part of ongoing work to develop and improve adult social care services. More than 1,000 people at the heart of these services are …
New document outlines achievements and aspirations for adult social care
Supporting people using adult social care services, their families and carers to have more choice, control and independence are among Shropshire Council’s achievements and ongoing priorities, outlined in a new document. Shropshire Council has produced a Local Account for Adult …
North east Shrewsbury – your views your community
The North East Shrewsbury Local Joint Committee (LJC) will be focussing on the Sundorne and Battlefield divisions on Tuesday 7 February 2012 at 7pm at The Lantern. Issues on the agenda to be discussed include policing priorities, surface water flooding, Tidy Shrewsbury, local …
Lots of fun in store for children this February half term
Children and young people can look forward to a half-term holiday packed full of fun at various sports centres and village halls across Shropshire. From Monday 13 February 2012 to Friday 17 February 2012 a variety of activities are taking …
Council making good progress towards tough savings targets
Completion of work to save around £85 million over three years is moving on apace as councillors consider proposals for cuts in spending by Shropshire Council. Cost reductions of £42 million will have already been made by March 2012 and, in …
Community payback team cleans College Street in Ludlow
Shropshire Council’s streetscene south west team were pleased to welcome the Probation Services’ community payback team to Ludlow on Thursday 12 January 2012. For their second project of the year 12 offenders swept, hoed and shovelled College Street in Ludlow …
Council housing rent increase to follow national guidelines
Shropshire Council’s housing tenants are likely to see their rents rise by an average of £5.34 a week as the council follows national guidelines to increase rents from April 2012. The proposed increase of 7.9% is in line with …
Oswestry LJC on 16 February
The next meeting of Oswestry Local Joint Committee (LJC) will be a unique opportunity for everyone involved or interested in the town’s voluntary and community sector (VCS) to start planning together for how it can respond to the recent Localism Act, …
Essential work to start at Porthill Footbridge in Shrewsbury
Essential work to refurbish Porthill Footbridge, which crosses the River Severn between The Quarry and Porthill in Shrewsbury, is due to start shortly.
Cabinet to hear about progress of school federation plans
Work to encourage and support schools to join more closely together will be discussed by Shropshire councillors next week. Shropshire Council’s Cabinet on Wednesday 8 February 2012 will be given an update on progress that has been made since it …
Darwin’s Shrewsbury tour
Shropshire Council’s Shrewsbury Visitor Information Centre will be hosting a series of guided walks exploring Charles Darwin’s Shrewsbury as part of the annual Darwin 2012 Festival this February (2012). The tours are every day from Monday 13 February through to …
Find out about issues in Highley at our Local Joint Committee
Shropshire Council is encouraging local people to come along to the Highley Local Joint Committee (LJC) to talk about the issues that matter to them. The meeting will take place on Wednesday 22 February 2012 at 7pm at The Severn Centre …
National Libraries Day 2012 – join them, use them, love them
It is National Libraries Day on Saturday 4 February; a nationwide celebration of libraries, library users, staff and supporters.
Event shares benefits of offering apprenticeships
The benefits of offering places to apprentices were shared with more than 70 employers at a Shropshire Council-led event. The successful event was part of a joint effort across the county to highlight the expanding range of opportunities for employers …
Mural brightens up Shrewsbury children’s home
A council children’s home has a colourful mural brightening up its entrance thanks to the work of students from Shrewsbury Sixth Form College and the help of a local councillor.
Birds event at Severn Valley Country Park
Need somewhere to take the children this half-term? Join Shropshire Council staff at Severn Valley Country Park to learn all about our feathered friends. Come along on a ranger-led ramble looking at bird nest sites on the park, and have …
Shropshire car parks among the safest in the country
Shropshire Council’s car parks have been recognised by the police in a national safer parking scheme for the second year running. The scheme is designed to reduce crime and the fear of crime in car parks and facilities that attain …
Shrewsbury regeneration event sets the scene for inspiring new vision for town
Shropshire Council hosted the launch of the Shrewsbury Vision Regeneration Framework on Monday 23 January 2012.
Got a bus pass? Then please check the date
Shropshire Council is encouraging people to check the expiry date on their bus pass. If it expires in 2012 they will need to apply for a new one. Renewals are free.
Warning issued to cyclists who ride on pavements
Cyclists are being reminded that it is a criminal offence to ride on pavements, following some near-misses between pedestrians and cyclists in Shropshire. The warning comes after the issue was raised at the Wem and Shawbury Local Joint Committee (LJC), when …
News alerts from Shropshire Council
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Tourism and Olympic Torch celebrations to light up St Oswald and Llanymynech LJC’s next meeting
Local people from the St Oswald and Llanymynech area are encouraged to attend their last Local Joint Committee (LJC) meeting for this financial year, to be held on Tuesday 7 February 2012 at Llanymynech Village Hall at 7pm. The meeting will focus on …
Countdown to announcement of Shropshire’s new Members of Youth Parliament
The countdown is on towards the announcement of Shropshire’s new Members of Youth Parliament (MYPs). Young people aged 11 to 18 have been voting for their MYPs at schools and colleges throughout Shropshire since 1 December 2011. The successful candidates …
Shropshire gets go-ahead for broadband plan
Work to bring superfast broadband to more areas of Shropshire has taken a step forward after the Government approved the plans.
More improvement for Shropshire schools
Shropshire’s 16-year-olds and their teachers have again done the county proud with another record year for GCSE results. The best ever county figure for the key 5+ A*-C (including English and mathematics) indicator was unveiled in the Key Stage 4 …
Work to solve drainage problems in Ludlow
New gully channels will be installed in Ludlow’s Market Square to solve ongoing drainage problems which have been plaguing local businesses and shoppers. The drainage channels were recently cleaned out in an attempt to solve the drainage problems, but that …
Information day for parents of children with a disability
A free information day is being held for parents and carers of children and young people with disabilities or additional needs on Monday 13 February 2012 from 10am – 2pm at Shrewsbury Sports Village in Sundorne. Shropshire Council’s Family Information …
Holocaust Memorial Day commemorated in Shropshire
Shropshire Council will be hosting an event for Holocaust Memorial Day on Friday 27 January 2012 in the Council Chamber, Shirehall.
Aquafusion at the Quarry Swimming and Fitness Centre in Shrewsbury
A new fitness class called Aquafusion is now being held on Monday evenings at 8pm at the Quarry Swimming and Fitness Centre in Shrewsbury. This fun class combines aquafit, jogging and circuits in deep and shallow water, helping people to …
Residents encouraged to recycle their Yellow Pages
Shropshire residents are being asked to recycle their old Yellow Pages, now that the new one has been delivered.
Launch of Shrewsbury Vision regeneration framework at Theatre Severn
Shropshire Council will be hosting the launch of the Shrewsbury Vision Regeneration Framework at Theatre Severn on Monday (23 January 2012).
New trial to collect cardboard from the kerbside in Whittington
A new trial to collect cardboard for recycling from the kerbside will start in Whittington from the end of this month (Tuesday 31 January 2012). This follows changes to national composting standards in November 2011 which have meant that composters …
Bishop’s Castle biomass plant – update
Land at Bishop’s Castle Business Park previously earmarked for a biomass energy plant has been withdrawn from the market, after Shropshire Council was unable to agree terms with the company involved. Shropshire Council and Bishop’s Castle Biomass Power Ltd have …
Chance to share views about life in the Whixall area
People who live or work in the communities that make up the parish of Whixall are invited to share their local knowledge about life in the area at a one-off evening event on Thursday 2 February 2012. People need to …
Hackney carriage taxi and private hire vehicle licence consultation
Shropshire traders, residents and visitors are being asked to get involved in a consultation on hackney carriage taxi and private hire licences.
Fancy being an apprentice?
Anyone thinking of starting a career in childcare is being invited to an information session being held in Shrewsbury on Wednesday 8 February 2012. Shropshire Council’s early years team is holding the event as part of National Apprenticeship Week for school …
Scrutiny driving forward to enhance services for local children
Shropshire Council’s Safe and Confident Communities Scrutiny Committee have agreed to set up a task and finish group to look at ways to help improve the attainment of pupils receiving free school meals. A learning and skills report highlighted at …
Birchmeadow Centre in Broseley benefits from council funding
The Birchmeadow Centre in Broseley has received a major boost after being awarded £45,000 under Shropshire Council’s Market Towns Revitalisation Programme (MTRP).
Council leader and MPs push Shropshire’s case for a direct rail link to London
The case for a direct train service from Shropshire to London has been put to a major railway company by Shropshire Council’s leader and local MPs.
Shrewsbury skate park consultation results
Shropshire Council and Shrewsbury Town Council are inviting people to hear the results of the recent consultation about a new skate park in Shrewsbury at a special meeting this week (Wednesday 18 January 2012). The meeting, to take place at …
Flood information and insurance exhibition to be held in Shifnal
Shifnal residents living in homes which are at risk from flooding will be able to find out how to protect them and get help writing a personal flood plan at a special exhibition later this month (Tuesday 31 January 2012). …
People encouraged to watch out for drain cover thefts
Shropshire Council and the police are encouraging residents to watch out for anything suspicious following a spate of drain cover thefts in and around Shrewsbury over the Christmas and New Year period. Around 30 drain covers have been stolen across …
Groundbreaking local hydropower co-operative is launched
A community group in Cleobury country is seeking investors to help return the historic Tetstill Mill in Neen Sollars to the harnessing of power from the River Rea by producing green energy for local people. To encourage local interest and support, …
Businesses help shape future council work
Shropshire’s “entrepreneurial spirit” remains as strong as ever despite the current tough economic conditions, business leaders have told councillors. Shropshire Council’s enterprise and growth scrutiny committee have been debating the economy of the county with representatives from the business community, …
Government minister praises Shropshire’s “innovative” planning work
Shropshire is leading the way to bring more planning power to local people, according to a Government minister.
Free business advice clinics
Business advice clinics organised by Shropshire Council’s business and enterprise team are proving popular for existing and new start-up businesses, with more being held to meet demand. The clinics, which are supported by Business Enterprise Support (BES), offer free and …
A new recycling service for Oswestry town centre
Residents in Oswestry town centre who do not currently receive a recycling service will soon be able to recycle their paper, glass, cans, plastic bottles and light card from the kerbside, thanks to a new service being introduced from Friday …
Headteachers committed to building on federation success
Headteachers from schools which successfully federated this month after working with Shropshire Council have spoken of their commitment to building on the achievement.
Dinham in Ludlow gets a deep clean
Over a tonne of leaves and rubbish were collected along Dinham in Ludlow during the last deep clean of 2011. Shropshire Council carried out the deep clean on Friday 16 December 2011 between 7.30am and 9.30am. In order to carry …
Don’t let your Christmas tree go to waste
Shropshire Council and its waste contractor Veolia are reminding residents that they can still recycle their Christmas trees by putting them out for collection alongside their garden waste or taking them to their nearest household recycling centre. All real Christmas …
Exhibition of Victorian entertainments
Shropshire Archives will be showcasing their collection of Victorian entertainments from Friday 13 January 2012.
Communities set to benefit from new planning windfall
Shropshire residents will soon be reaping the benefits of a new planning initiative, with thousands of pounds being ploughed into community projects as a windfall from new development. Developers now have to pay a contribution as part of the planning …
Council’s waste contractor wins appeal
The Planning Inspectorate has today (Tuesday 10 January 2012) approved the appeal from Veolia Environmental Services, Shropshire Council’s waste contractor, and granted planning permission for an energy from waste facility at Battlefield in Shrewsbury. Veolia’s planning application was refused by …
Home library service for Church Stretton and surrounding district
After a successful recruitment campaign in December 2011, Church Stretton Library has launched a new home library service, taking books, CDs, DVDs and talking books to members of the community who find it difficult to get to their local library. …
Free training in Shrewsbury for dance artists
Shropshire Council, in partnership with Youth Dance England, is offering free training for dance artists, practitioners or childminders looking to develop their skills and experience in delivering dance for children aged 0 to 5. The free training session will take …
Car park charges to be frozen for next financial year
Car park charges across Shropshire will be frozen during the coming year as Shropshire Council works with traders to try to encourage shoppers into town centres. The charging freeze is one of a number of recommendations contained in a report …
Schools achieve federation status
Schools which have been given the opportunity to explore alternatives to closing have successfully federated after working with Shropshire Council.
Work to improve Ludlow Assembly Rooms starts in earnest
Work to refurbish Ludlow Assembly Rooms has started in earnest, after the project was awarded £70,000 under Shropshire Council’s Market Towns Revitalisation Programme. This is being match funded by local fundraising and a grant from Shropshire Screen, a scheme which …
Shropshire’s council homes set for new management structure
Shropshire’s council houses could be run by a new management board under plans which would give tenants more of a say in decisions affecting their home. Shropshire Council would still own the homes under the proposals, but the housing service …
Church Stretton enhancement scheme will not go ahead
A scheme to enhance Church Stretton’s High Street will not go ahead, after it was rejected at yesterday’s (Tuesday 3 January 2012) planning committee meeting held in Bridgnorth. The scheme, which was originally approved at South Planning Committee in October …
Council’s push for a fairer funding deal for rural communities starts to bear fruit
Shropshire could be getting a fairer funding deal from the Government after ministers pledged to review how much money councils receive to provide rural services.
Frankwell car park now open
Frankwell car park in Shrewsbury is now open as water levels River Severn start to go down.
Ludlow Assembly Rooms and Shropshire Council work together
Shropshire Council and Ludlow Assembly Rooms have been working together over the last few months to ensure a viable future for the venue following the withdrawal of Arts Council England funding from April 2012. A business plan detailing a number …
A458 near Cound – update
The A458 between Cressage and Cross Houses was temporarily closed on Friday 23 December 2011 due to flooding. It is expected to reopen later in the evening when the water has dispersed. While this section of road is closed traffic is …
Drain cover thefts
Around 30 drain covers have been stolen across Shropshire over the past week – costing over £5,000 to replace. Councillor Simon Jones, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member with responsibility for transport, said: “Not only expensive to replace, missing covers also present …
Funding closing date extended in Gobowen, Selattyn, St Martins and Weston Rhyn
Gobowen, Selattyn, St Martins & Weston Rhyn Local Joint Committee (LJC) will be holding their final meeting for 2011/12 on Tuesday 14 February 2012 at All Saints Church Hall , Gobowen. The meeting will start at 7pm and look at …
CCTV now operational in Craven Arms
A new CCTV system has been installed in Craven Arms as a joint initiative between Shropshire Council and Craven Arms Town Council, with the backing of the local police. Two cameras have been installed in central locations in the town …
Reminder to use licensed taxis this Christmas
People planning to enjoy a night out over the Christmas period are being warned to use only licensed taxis or private hire vehicles.
Successful prosecutions of benefit fraud in Shropshire
A Shropshire woman was sentenced to 26 weeks in prison yesterday (Thursday 22 December 2011) after being found guilty of housing benefit and council tax benefit fraud. Jayne Louise Speed, of Birch Road, Ellesmere, pleaded guilty to housing benefit and council …
Shropshire primary schools welcome a steady increase in the uptake of school meals
Primary schools across the Shropshire Council area have seen an extra 500 meals being sold compared to this time last year. The quality of the food, exciting promotional menus and enthusiastic staff from the council’s Shire Services team have all …
How are you getting home tonight?
People celebrating the Christmas party season in 2011 are being urged to stay safe during the festive period. As part of its “How are you getting home?” campaign, Shropshire’s Safer Stronger Communities Partnership are asking people to think about their …
New cardboard recycling banks
Sixteen new cardboard recycling banks are now in place across the county to help residents recycle their cardboard more easily. These are located at: The Severn Centre in Highley Oswald Road Car Park (opposite Morrisons supermarket) in Oswestry Church Street …
Parents reminded to apply for their child’s school place
Get your applications in now to give your child the best chance of getting a place at the school of your choice.
Positive take up for new Tell Us Once service
Shropshire Council has teamed up with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to deliver the Tell Us Once service which, with the authority of the person registering, can be used to notify relevant Government departments, agencies and council services …
Encompass Dance and Digital Media Project forges forwards
The Encompass Dance and Digital Media Project has appointed a new project co-ordinator. Anna Savill is an experienced producer with over 10 years film and television experience. She originally trained as a television producer at the BBC and worked at …
Council awarded £100,000 to develop innovative ideas to support older people
Shropshire Council has been awarded £100,000 to develop innovative ideas to increase older people’s independence, confidence and links to others who can offer support. The council is to receive the funding from the Keeping Connected Business Challenge, which was launched …
Scrutiny getting the advice of experts to help drive council forward
Business and technology experts are among those being invited to advise Shropshire Councillors on developing policy, as the council’s new-look scrutiny committees gather momentum. Shropshire Council’s scrutiny committees – cross-party political groups which debate policy and advise the council’s Cabinet …
Taxi safety in the spotlight over the festive season
Taxi safety is in the spotlight as Shropshire Council officers step up patrols to ensure revellers can get home safely during the Christmas party season. Council public protection and enforcement teams have been working across the county to check that: …
Christmas arrangements at Shropshire Council
The council will be closing its main administrative offices over Christmas and New Year – as it did last year – to save thousands of pounds and reduce energy costs.
Funding boost for Quatt Cricket Club pavilion project
Quatt Cricket Club’s pavilion project has received a major boost after being awarded £40,000 under Shropshire Council’s Market Towns Revitalisation Programme (MTRP). This is being match funded and used to replace the club’s dilapidated 1938 pavilion with a modern, fit-for-purpose …
Invitation for applications to be part of Short Breaks scheme
Shropshire Council is inviting organisations to submit applications to be part of its Short Breaks scheme. The Short Breaks programme provides opportunities for children and young people with disabilities to take part in activities independently of their families, while …
Head to Greenacres Farm for unique Christmas gifts
Shoppers looking for last-minute unique Christmas gifts can head to Greenacres Farm in Walford Heath this week.
Cycling Santa joins the St Giles bike train
Cycling Santa joined the final St Giles cycle train of the year, leading a group of children and parents on their cycle ride into school.
Shrews fans urged to download charity Christmas song
Fans attending Shrewsbury Town’s game last Saturday (17 December 2011) were encouraged to download a special charity Christmas song.
Resurfacing for Old Street and Gravel Hill in Ludlow
Old Street and Gravel Hill in Ludlow were resurfaced between 17 October and 20 October 2011 by specialist surfacing contractor Colas. This resurfacing now needs to be repaired as it was not completed to an acceptable standard and has started …
Reported cases of flytipping down 13 per cent
Flytipping incidents dealt with by Shropshire Council have fallen by 13 per cent in the past year, according to the latest official figures published by the Department of the Environment, Fisheries and Rural Affairs (DEFRA). The statistics show that Shropshire …
Love food hate waste this Christmas
The average Shropshire household will splash out £133.70 on food for the Christmas table, according to a new national survey. However, the same survey also discovered that 56% of householders admit they will throw away up to 30% of that …
Shrewsbury needs its own ‘Queen of Shops’ says Shropshire Council
Mary Portas, the so-called ‘Queen of Shops’, has released a report on how to revive Britain’s flagging high streets. It identifies how town centres need to adapt and be “visitor destinations”, not just shopping centres. The retail trade in Shrewsbury …
Council encourages people to recycle their electrical equipment
Shropshire Council is backing Recycle Now’s national campaign to get more people to recycle their broken or unwanted electrical equipment in the run up to Christmas. A recent survey (carried out on behalf of Recycle Now) revealed that a staggering …
Severe weather warning for motorists
The Safer Roads Partnership in West Mercia is advising motorists in Shropshire, Herefordshire and Worcestershire to be prepared for hazardous driving conditions during the winter.
Exhibition for a proposed new traffic scheme a great success
Over 400 residents, business people and visitors went to see a proposed new traffic scheme for St Julian’s Friars in Shrewsbury during a two day exhibition held last week (Thursday 8 December and Friday 9 December 2011). The exhibition, which …
More success for Shropshire primary schools
Primary school results for last year’s national curriculum tests for 11-year-olds have been published, showing performance at an all-time high.
Cabinet hears how feedback is shaping adult social care plans
Shropshire Council’s Cabinet today (Wednesday 14 December 2011) heard how the views of people from across the county are shaping the future of adult social care. Councillors discussed the plans going forward, following the biggest consultation on adult social care …
Children’s centre rated “good”
Shropshire Council’s Craven Arms area Sure Start children’s centre has been judged as “good” by Government inspectors. In a report published this week, Ofsted (the Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills) said that the Craven Arms area …
Remember the morning after – will you still be over the limit?
Shropshire Council’s road safety education team is reminding motorists to avoid driving the morning after they have been out drinking. As part of the ‘Over the Limit – you don’t have to be drunk to be a drink driver’ campaign, …
Shropshire chosen as an ‘ageing well’ area
Shropshire is benefitting from extra support to help place older people at the heart of health and well-being planning work, after being chosen as one of 17 areas across the country to be an ‘ageing-well development area’. The council has …
Shrewsbury leisure centre gets shortlisted for national award
The Quarry Swimming and Fitness Centre in Shrewsbury has recently been shortlisted as a finalist for a prestigious national award. The centre was shortlisted, from 228 sites nationally, to compete against five other finalists for the title of ‘best and …
Check out the food hygiene rating when eating out this Christmas
Anyone choosing where to eat out or shop for festive food as Christmas approaches is reminded that the food hygiene rating scheme can provide help in making a decision. The scheme helps people to decide by providing information about …
Christmas crafts for little ones at Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery
Children and their families are invited to a festive workshop at Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery on Tuesday 20 December 2011.
Weekend of countryside skills at Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre
Still looking for ideas for Christmas gifts? Why not treat a loved one to a course in countryside skills next month. An opportunity to experience hedge-laying and coppicing for fuel marks the start of a new season of workshops and activities …
Volunteers needed to breathe life into Donington Pool
Shropshire Council’s outdoor recreation service and Donington and Albrighton Local Nature Reserve Management Committee need your help. They have recently been awarded a £50,000 Community Spaces grant to transform the surroundings of Donington Pool in Albrighton. Work will include construction …
Funding available for projects in the Ellesmere area
Members of Ellesmere Local Joint Committee (LJC), which covers the parishes of Cocksutt Cum Petton, Welshampton & Lyneal, Welsh Frankton, Dudleston Heath and Ellesmere Town, are inviting local organisations to apply for funding. The group has £9,035 remaining in the current …
Community grant celebration event at Levi Court in Ellesmere
The Levi Court Residents Association in Ellesmere has received a grant of £546 towards the cost of replacing a 35-year-old carpet that now looks dated in the modern refurbishment. The grant was funded through the Ellesmere Local Joint Committee (LJC), which covers …
Pupils get digging to support national tree campaign
Local schoolpupils in Shrewsbury have been getting their hands dirty this week as part of a national tree planting campaign. The tree planting events organised by Shrewsbury Town Council and Shropshire Council is part of the Government’s ‘The Big Tree Plant’ …
Emergency road closure of B4393 near Alderbury
The B4393 near Alderbury has been closed due to a road traffic collision. While this road is closed, traffic is being diverted via the A458, A483, B4393 and vice versa.
Santa to make a stop in Craven Arms, Whitchurch and Shrewsbury as Grotto Games returns
Children and young people in and around Craven Arms, Whitchurch and Shrewsbury will have the opportunity to tell Santa their last minute Christmas wishes as Grotto Games comes to town. Following the successes of the previous Grotto Games, Shropshire Council …
Repair work to start at Bank Steps in Bridgnorth
On Monday 19 December 2011 work will start to repair Bank Steps in Bridgnorth, which were recently closed on an emergency basis. Bank Steps were closed after the partial collapse of a previously unrecorded vault which carried the lower part …
Top tips for a green Christmas
There’s snow time like the present to be thinking about how to reduce household waste over this year’s festive period. Shropshire Council, together with its waste contractor Veolia Environmental Services, has provided some top tips to help residents save money …
Don’t forget – waste collection day changes
Shropshire Council and its contractor Veolia Environmental Services Ltd are reminding residents about important changes to their waste collection dates during the festive period. During this time, the day on which waste is collected from households will change because of …
Drop Vodka warning
Shropshire Council’s food safety and trading standards teams are warning people not to buy or drink an illegal brand of vodka which poses a potential health risk. The Food Standards Agency has issued a nationwide alert after illicit Drop …
Site chosen for extended primary school in Shawbury
After months of discussion a decision has been made on the site for the expanded Shawbury school.
Oswestry vision for local groups
How Oswestry’s thriving voluntary and community groups can help shape and deliver the localism agenda will be at the heart of the next meeting of the Oswestry Local Joint Committee (LJC) on Thursday 16 February 2012 at the Eastern Oswestry …
Ludlow properties receive conservation awards
Over 20 Ludlow buildings were awarded for their contribution to the enhancement of the Ludlow Conservation area this week at the Ludlow Heritage Awards. Hosted by the Ludlow Conservation Area Advisory Committee (LCAAC), the event attracted over 90 people …
Scrutiny to look at future of grant funding for voluntary and community sector
Shropshire Council’s Performance and Strategy Scrutiny Committee will be looking at the council’s financial relationship with the voluntary and community sector at their meeting on Tuesday 13 December 2011. Council funding is hugely important to the voluntary and community sector, …
Hairdressing apprentice celebrates new business opportunity
Shrewsbury hairdresser Ian Bezuidenhout has taken the leap in setting up his own salon to work alongside existing beauty business, The Beauty Lounge. Ian, from Harlescott, started his hairdressing career as an apprentice with County Training’s apprenticeship programme, where he …
Registering for free school meals helps schools benefit from extra funding
Shropshire parents are being urged to check if their child could benefit from free school meals which could save them more than £350 a year.
Council’s new highways and environment contractor is confirmed
Shropshire Council has this week confirmed Ringway Infrastructure Services Ltd as their new partner who, as from April 2012, will maintain the roads and deliver streetscene services across the county. Ringway was selected as the preferred bidder from a shortlist of five …
Scrutiny panel to hear progress of work to outsource leisure centre management
Shropshire Council’s Safe and Confident Communities Scrutiny Committee will hear and discuss the latest progress to outsource the future management of five leisure centres at their meeting this afternoon (Wednesday 7 December 2011). The decision to seek a new partner …
Christmas fundraising boost for Hope House
Hope House Children’s Hospices has received a festive fundraising boost thanks to their annual Santa Fun Run, and a special Christmas song launched to raise money for the charity. More than 200 people joined Hope House’s annual starlit Santa Fun Run and …
Oswestry’s Community Alcohol Partnership warns young people against using fake IDs
A Shropshire Council-led project, the Oswestry Community Alcohol Partnership (Os-CAP), which aims to tackle underage drinking in the town, is warning young people against using fake IDs to obtain alcohol during the festive season. Trading Standards and Walford & North …
Local police want people to ‘Lighten Up!’
Now that the dark nights are here, the police are urging you to ‘Lighten Up!’ if you want to reduce your chances of being burgled over the autumn and winter months. Less than one per cent of homes in Herefordshire, …
Community tree scheme ‘top up’ option extended to 23 December
Shropshire’s residents, landowners and farmers who have applied for free trees through the community tree scheme now have until Friday 23 December 2011 to take advantage of a new ‘top up’ option, which allows purchasers to buy additional trees at …
Cross Street in Shrewsbury now open
Cross Street in Shrewsbury is now open. It was closed earlier this afternoon (Monday 5 December 2011 at 2.30pm) due to a lorry stuck underneath the railway bridge.
Successful prosecutions of benefit fraud
A Shropshire man pleaded guilty to housing benefit and council tax benefit offences at Shrewsbury Magistrates Court on Friday 2 December 2011. Karl Taylor of Barber Close, Oswestry, claimed housing benefit and council tax benefit but failed to tell Shropshire …
Cross Street in Shrewsbury closed
Cross Street, near the railway station in Shrewsbury, has been closed today (Monday 5 December 2011 at 2.30pm) due to a lorry stuck under the railway bridge. While this road is closed, traffic is being diverted via Ellesmere Road, Harlescott …
Royal visit to school and leisure centres
His Royal Highness The Duke of Gloucester officially opened a Shropshire secondary school as part of his visit to the county.
Illegal loan sharks targeted by Shropshire Council and partners
Specialist training to help the council and its partners crack down on loan sharks has been taking place. There were around 100 people who took part in the training day, including council staff, people from housing associations Severnside and Shropshire …
Acton Scott Farm opens its gates for Christmas
Acton Scott Historic Working Farm will be opening its gates to a host of festive activities this weekend (Saturday 10 December and Sunday 11 December 2011) Due to last year’s success the farm will be extending its opening times. The …
Volunteers needed for new home library service in Church Stretton
Church Stretton Library is calling for volunteers to help with a new service which will take the library to the local community. The library hopes to start the free home library service next year (2012). The service, which will be …
New interactive map of Shrewsbury launched
Shropshire Council has developed an interactive map of Shrewsbury Town Centre for use online and for 3G phones and androids.
Want to know when the gritters are out?
Shropshire residents can now click on a single link to find out when the gritters are out across the whole of the West Midlands. This follows Shropshire Council joining forces with Birmingham, Walsall, Dudley, Staffordshire County, Sandwell and Solihull Councils to give people winter …
Scheme helps parents of children with disabilities and additional needs obtain childcare
A Shropshire Council initiative has helped more than 20 parents of children with a disability or additional need obtain childcare since it was launched this year, building on a range of existing support services. The pilot project is run …
First cardboard recycling banks installed around the county
Changes to the national compost standard have meant that compost producers used by Shropshire Council’s waste contractor Veolia can no longer accept cardboard mixed with garden waste, in a move to improve the quality of compost. The new quality standard …
Follow twitter to find your nearest gritter
Shropshire has joined forces with neighbouring councils to help residents find out when the gritters are out across the whole of the West Midlands. People can now visit a single webpage to see winter weather updates and other cold weather …
Give a little Hope this Christmas
Shropshire Council has launched a Christmas song to raise money for local charity Hope House Children’s Hospices.
Sustainable travel in Oswestry – meeting to set year’s plan of action
Following on from a very well attended public meeting in September 2011 to discuss the new Local Sustainable Transport Fund benefiting Oswestry, a first steering group meeting will take place tomorrow night (Thursday 8 December 2011) from 7pm at the …
Solar PV companies invited to ‘meet the buyer’ events
As part of its ongoing commitment to cut carbon emissions, Shropshire Council is hoping to install solar photovoltaic panels on its suitable buildings, including council houses where reasonably practicable. The council will be hosting a series of events for potential …
Over the limit – you don’t have to be drunk to be a drink-driver
The Safer Roads Partnership has joined forces with police and councils to warn people of the dangers of drink-driving during the festive period.
Could you help people in your area with transport?
Shropshire Council is looking for volunteer drivers to help provide a vital service to local people. The community car scheme and voluntary car scheme have been managed by the council’s passenger transport services for a number of years, providing an …
Come and see St Julian’s Friars in Shrewsbury proposed new traffic scheme
Shropshire Council is inviting residents to come and see a proposed new traffic scheme for St Julian’s Friars in Shrewsbury next week (Thursday 8 December 2011 and Friday 9 December 2011). The exhibition will take place from 2pm until 7pm on …
Llanymynech Station Bridge to have a weight limit
Llanymynech Station Bridge, which carries the B4398 Knockin to Llanymynech road over a disused railway line on the outskirts of Llanymynech, is to have a mandatory 7.5 tonne weight limit from Tuesday 20 December 2011. The weight limit is necessary …
New Shropshire Way circular walk opens in Shrewsbury thanks to local volunteers
A new Shropshire Way circular route has just been launched, thanks to the efforts of a local volunteer group.
Town and parish councils look to save energy by joining streetlighting scheme
A scheme to save energy by switching streetlights off in the middle of the night is being embraced by parish and town councils across Shropshire. Shropshire Council is converting 12,500 of its streetlights to ‘part-night lighting’ over the next three …
Adult social care plans discussed at scrutiny committee
Changes are taking place to the way that adult social care services are developed and delivered. The council’s Joint Safe and Confident Communities and Healthy Communities Scrutiny Committee this week received an update on how some of these plans are …
Zorbing in Dorrington
On Friday 2 December 2011 at Dorrington Village Hall children under 6 years old and their parents and carers that go to ‘Scooter Club’ will all have the opportunity to try zorbing indoors. During the session, which runs from 3.30pm until 4.30pm, …
Recognition for partnership working – bulky waste collection service
An innovative partnership between Shropshire Council and others has been recognised as an excellent example of partnership working.
New Prees stay and play group
A new stay and play session for families with children under five years old will be held in Prees from Thursday 1 December 2011.
Official opening of new walking and cycling routes to Shrewsbury town centre
A new scheme to improve walking and cycling connections in Shrewsbury town centre, completed as part of the improvement works at the Raven Meadows junction of Smithfield Road, will officially open today (Wednesday 30 November 2011). As well as better …
Council supports White Ribbon campaign
People of Shropshire are all invited to wear a white ribbon to pledge never to commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women.
A49 near Wem due to reopen tonight (Tuesday 29 November 2011)
The A49 at Preston Brockhurst, near Wem, is due to reopen this evening (Tuesday 29 November 2011), following a serious accident in the early hours of the day. Highways engineers have been working hard to recover the vehicles as quickly as possible, and …
Proposed charges for discretionary college transport: have your say
Transport charges for college students in Shropshire are currently among the lowest in the country, and people are being asked for their views on proposals to bring them in line with other councils across the country.
HRH to visit the new Oswestry Leisure Centre
His Royal Highness the Duke of Gloucester will visit the new Oswestry Leisure Centre as part of a full day in the county on Thursday 1 December 2011. The state-of-the-art centre was opened on 1 October 2011 and has since …
Health and well-being service providers and users encouraged to have their say on future of Shropshire’s health
Organisations involved in providing health and well-being services across the county, as well as those that represent service users, will be attending the annual Shropshire Partnership conference on Thursday 1 December 2011. The conference is being held at the Lord …
Schools adjudicator supports council’s decision to close Wakeman School and Arts College
Schools adjudicator, Canon Richard Lindley, has today (Monday 28 November 2011) announced his support for Shropshire Council’s decision to close the Wakeman School and Arts College in Shrewsbury, after considering representations from the school, diocese and council. Canon Lindley’s report …
Cabinet member steps down
A Shropshire Council Cabinet member is stepping down due to work commitments. Councillor Aggie Caesar-Homden, who has been Cabinet member for education and skills, decided she could no longer dedicate the required time and energy to this demanding role because …
New service to help bereaved families and new parents notify authorities
From Thursday 1 December a new service will be available to reduce stress and red tape when reporting a birth or death.
Information about proposed strike action on Wednesday 30 November 2011
Council services in Shropshire are expected to face major disruption on Wednesday (30 November 2011) due to strike action planned by public service trade unions.
Public consultation event to discuss new skatepark ideas, Shrewsbury
Shropshire Council and Shrewsbury Town Council are asking for people’s views on a replacement skatepark in or near Shrewsbury. This new facility will replace the previous skatepark at Monkmoor Recreation Centre. The councils are asking for people to get in …
Successful deep clean in Highley
Over 19 bags of litter and 1240kg of leaves and dirt were collected during a deep clean of Highley last week (Wednesday 16 November 2011). Four volunteers kindly donated their time to help Shropshire Council’s environmental maintenance team carry out …
Cycle together to see Shrewsbury Town this Saturday
Town fans will be able to travel to the Shrewsbury v Morecambe game on two wheels this Saturday, thanks to another Cycle Shrewsbury ‘Match Day Cycle Ride’. The free group cycle ride which is aimed at families with young children …
Free Park and Ride on Wednesday evenings in Shrewsbury
Just to remind shoppers, Park and Ride into Shrewsbury will be free after 4pm on Wednesdays in the run up to Christmas. This offer will stay in place until the last late-night shopping day on Wednesday 21 December 2011. Buses …
Porthill Footbridge in Shrewsbury to be refurbished next year
Shropshire Council is planning to carry out major refurbishment work next year to Porthill Footbridge in Shrewsbury as part of its commitment to investing in the county’s bridges.
Work underway on A49 Shrewsbury to replace damaged kerb
Urgent works are being carried out on the A49 (southbound) on the approach to Preston roundabout in Shrewsbury, to replace a badly damaged kerbline.
Firm action to clamp down on anti-social behaviour in Bridgnorth
Anti-social behaviour is being tackled in Bridgnorth, with Shropshire Council giving final warnings to three people relating to problems in Tasley Close.
Exciting project breathes new life into nature reserve
A successful partnership between Shropshire Council and a voluntary group in Albrighton has led to a grant of almost £50,000 being awarded to transform a nature reserve.
Get involved in the Olympic Flame celebrations
Shropshire Council is encouraging people to give the Olympic Flame a real Shropshire welcome when it visits the county next May (2012). Earlier this month (Monday 7 November 2011) the London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) …
Reminder about important change to kerbside cardboard collection service
Shropshire Council are reminding residents that as from next week (Monday 28 November 2011) cardboard can no longer be collected as part of the garden waste collection service. Changes to national composting standards mean that cardboard can no longer be …
World Café comes to Ruyton-XI-Towns
Residents of Ruyton-XI-Towns are invited to share their views about the future of the village at a special event on Tuesday (22 November 2011).
Christmas event set to be a real Cracker
Shrewsbury’s festive season is set to start with a bang this week as organisers plan a cracker of an event. Destination Shrewsbury have promised an evening of fun-filled entertainment for all the family to mark the launch of the town’s new Christmas …
White Lion Meadows public toilets in Whitchurch
Whitchurch Town Council regrettably approved closure of the public toilets at White Lion Meadows at its full council meeting earlier this month (Thursday 3 November 2011). These toilets have been operated by the town council since April 2011, following an …
Be safe with waste asbestos
Shropshire Council and their contractor are reminding residents to be safety conscious when disposing of hazardous asbestos waste from DIY projects.
Cabinet approves new conservation area
Shropshire Council’s Cabinet yesterday (16 November 2011) approved the designation of the Great Ness Conservation Area.
Council’s award new highways and environment contract to Ringway Infrastructure Services Ltd
At their meeting yesterday (Wednesday 16 November 2011) Shropshire Council’s Cabinet approved the recommendation to select Ringway as preferred bidder to maintain the roads and deliver street scene services across the county. This new six-year contract will start on 1 …
Businesses in Shropshire encouraged to go green to boost profits
Shropshire businesses are being given the chance to go green and improve profits through a new energy efficiency project, after the announcement of new funding. The RE:think Energy initiative will help more than 220 businesses based in Shropshire, Herefordshire, Staffordshire …
Council working through major savings plan
Shropshire Council has met almost half of the major savings required as a result of large cuts in Government funding – but the rest is needed over the next few years.
A Christmas Carol guided walks in Shrewsbury
Fans of the film of “A Christmas Carol”, filmed on location in Shrewsbury 27 years ago, are being invited to join one of two special guided walks on Saturday 17 December 2011. Organised by Shropshire Council’s tourist information service, the …
Shropshire Council plans for the future
A new interactive plan that details how Shropshire Council aims to deliver services over the next three years has been launched. The new plan gives a flavour of what the council will be doing over the next three years and sets out the way …
Shropshire Council welcomes trade union ballot result on employment changes
The Leader of Shropshire Council, Councillor Keith Barrow, today (Wednesday 16 November 2011) welcomed the outcome of the ballot by UNISON, in which members of the trade union voted overwhelmingly to accept the Council’s improved offer on new terms and conditions …
Cracking down on benefit fraud
Shropshire Council’s housing benefit and council tax benefit investigation team are cracking down on benefit fraud. Since April 2011, the team have issued 54 formal cautions, 32 administrative penalties (fines) and taken out 30 prosecutions. People are prosecuted when have claimed …
Oak Farm wins national recycling award
A day service for adults with learning disabilities has won a prestigious national award for their community recycling activities.
Trust awards substantial grant to support Shrewsbury’s new Museum and Art Gallery
Shropshire Council’s museum service has been awarded a substantial grant of £100,000 from The Walker Trust to support the development of learning and education activities at the new Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery. The funding will help the museum team …
Business start-up session at Oswestry Library
Oswestry Library work club are running a business start-up session for anyone interested in starting their own business. The session, to take place at the library on Friday 18 November 2011 from 10am until 12pm, offers people a chance to …
Landmark moment in creation of state-of-the-art MYPlace youth centre in Oswestry
A landmark moment in the creation of a new, state-of-the-art youth centre in Oswestry is going to be celebrated today (Tuesday 15 November 2011) with a special ceremony. Work on the foundations of the £2.85 million facility for young people …
Council asks for people’s views on new skatepark
Shropshire Council and Shrewsbury Town Council are asking for people’s views on a replacement skatepark in or near Shrewsbury. This new facility will replace the previous skatepark at Monkmoor Recreation Centre. The councils are asking for people to get in …
Have your say on Oswestry parish boundaries
The people of Oswestry have a rare chance to shape the political landscape of their area as part of a review of parish boundaries – but time is running out to get involved.
Repairs for Castle Hill Bridge in Leebotwood
Castle Hill Bridge near Leebotwood will be closed for parapet repairs starting on Monday 21 November 2011 for up to two days. The bridge carries an unclassified road over a brook near the access to Castle Hill Farm. Unfortunately, due …
Alcohol Awareness Week 2011
Shropshire Council is getting out and about to highlight the dangers of alcohol to parents during Alcohol Awareness Week. The council’s drug and alcohol action team are running a series of alcohol information and awareness sessions, that started yesterday (Monday …
Harlescott Junior School in rapid response to critical Ofsted report
Staff and governors at a Shrewsbury primary school are working closely with Shropshire Council to address the outcomes following a recent report from Government inspectors. Ofsted inspectors, who visited Harlescott Junior School in Shrewsbury, have said that whilst the school …
Ready for winter: more salt than ever before
Shropshire Council is well prepared for winter, with extra salt in its barns and depots ready for gritting the county’s roads.
Oswestry businesses invited to exchange ideas at World Café
Do you have a big idea which could shape the economic future of Oswestry? Oswestry businesses are invited to another World Café consultation meeting on Thursday 17 November 2011 at The Wynnstay Hotel to discuss new ideas to enhance Oswestry’s …
Hospital plans on agenda at north Shropshire meeting
A health information event will be held at Shropshire Council’s Edinburgh House offices in Wem on Monday 21 November 2011, starting at 6pm.
Residents and nature enthusiasts invited to Your Natural Heritage convention
Shropshire Council’s natural environment team will be hosting its 2011 Your Natural Heritage convention on Tuesday 15 November 2011 at the Millennium Hall, Cockshutt. The event from 7pm to 9.30pm is free, and open to everyone who has already taken …
Investing in Shropshire’s roads
Shropshire Council has been busy repairing the county’s roads over the spring and summer, following damage caused by the worst winter for more than 100 years. The council received £3,615,511 from the Government in March 2011 and it subsequently put …
New indicators show council is performing well
New performance indicators designed to show residents how Shropshire Council services are doing will be discussed by councillors next week. The first performance report for 2011/12 using new indicators shows that the council is generally performing strongly, with 71% of …
Grant scheme to help Market Drayton town centre regeneration
£135,000 has been allocated to help regenerate Market Drayton town centre.
Remembrance Day commemoration held at Shropshire Council
Council staff and councillors gathered to remember those who lost their lives.
Proposals for new speed limits in Shrewsbury
Shrewsbury residents have an opportunity to make comments on proposals for changes to speed limits on several roads in the town. The proposals released yesterday (Thursday 10 November 2011) are being put forward to help improve the safety of roads and …
Shropshire’s children’s services praised by Government inspectors
The quality of services provided to children in Shropshire has been given a clean bill of health by Government inspectors. Government watchdog, Ofsted, has given Shropshire Council’s children’s services a rating of three out four in its annual assessment, which …
Bridgnorth Leisure Centre no longer part of immediate plans for new management
Bridgnorth Leisure Centre will no longer form part of Shropshire Council’s immediate plans to find a new partner to manage its principal leisure facilities, after the governors of Bridgnorth Endowed School said that they would like more time to consider …
Derelict Shrewsbury building to open as a youth hub
The former premises of local firm Salop Glass in the Castlefields and Ditherington area of Shrewsbury has been transformed into a centre for youth activities after the once empty building was given a new lease of life.
Shropshire young people join House of Commons debate
Students from Shropshire joined with 330 Members of Youth Parliament (MYPs) in the House of Commons to debate the issues and needs of young people.
Shropshire Archives attracts academic visitors
Shropshire Council’s Shropshire Archives service has seen a big increase in the number of overseas academic customers this year, following the release of more information online. Since the launch of the Shropshire section of The National Archives’ online Manorial Documents …
Rapping robot to visit Shropshire schools
Schoolpupils across Shropshire will be learning more about recycling next week when ‘Recycler’ the rapping robot tours Shropshire schools. From Monday 14 November 2011 to Thursday 17 November 2011, Recycler will be bringing recycling to life through his interactive show …
Shropshire community tree scheme announces new ‘top up’ option
Shropshire’s residents, landowners and farmers applying for free trees through the community tree scheme, have up to Friday 2 December 2011 to take advantage of a new ‘top up’ option which allows purchasers to buy additional trees at wholesale prices. Shropshire …
Future housing on the agenda for Craven Arms LJC
The Craven Arms and Rural Local Joint Committee (LJC) will be discussing local hot topics of housing, planning and sustainability in the area on Wednesday 16 November at 7pm at Wistanstow Village Hall. Officers from Shropshire Council planning policy and …
Top marks for council service for vulnerable people
A Shropshire Council service for vulnerable adults is celebrating after it was given top marks in a positive report by the Care Quality Commission.
Shropshire communities to welcome Olympic Flame
A total of 11 Shropshire communities will welcome the Olympic Flame next May (2012) as it makes its mammoth journey from Greece to the London 2012 Olympic Games.
Cafes at council’s community buildings could be saved
Cafe facilities at some of Shropshire Council’s community buildings could be taken over by staff themselves as part of innovative plans to provide council services in a different way.
Remembrance Day commemoration at Shropshire Council
Council staff and councillors will gather in the centre quadrangle at Shirehall, Shrewsbury, at 11am on Friday 11 November 2011 to remember those who lost their lives in the service of their country.
Chance to share views about life in the Burford and Tenbury Wells area
People who live or work in the communities that make up the Burford and Tenbury Wells area are being invited to share their local knowledge about life in the area at a special evening event on Tuesday 22 November 2011.
Market towns programme update at Longden LJC meeting
Members of the public who attended the Longden, Ford and Rea Valley Local Joint Committee (LJC) meeting on Wednesday 26 October 2011 were updated on the Market Towns Revitalisation Programme. The second round of the Rural Challenge Fund is asking …
Residents get to hear about future of health services in Shrewsbury
Residents in and around Shrewsbury have the opportunity to hear about the future of their hospital and ambulance services at a public meeting of the Shrewsbury-wide Local Joint Committee (LJC) on Thursday 10 November 2011 at 7pm at The Guildhall, …
National Compact Week – working together to strengthen communities
Local knowledge is local power’ is the theme for this year’s National Compact Week, which takes place from Monday 7 November.
Have your say on your local environmental maintenance service
Shropshire Council is asking Shropshire’s residents and businesses to have their say on the environmental maintenance service in Shropshire. The environmental maintenance teams are responsible for street cleaning, grounds maintenance, highways and removal of flytips, graffiti, and dog fouling, in …
Tenants feeling the benefits as council improves energy efficiency of housing stock
As winter draws in, Shropshire Council’s housing stock is well on the way to becoming more energy efficient – meaning benefits for the environment as well as the tenants.
Silvester Horne Institute relaunch
Around 100 people attended a relaunch event on Thursday 27 October 2011 to celebrate the extension and refurbishment of the Silvester Horne Institute in Church Stretton.
Places still available on renewable energy courses
Shropshire Council is reminding local businesses to sign up and make the most of their free specialised training in renewable energy and environmental technologies. The project is being managed by the council in conjunction with Telford and Wrekin, Warwickshire, Staffordshire, …