To receive an update from the local Police Team

The Police update had been covered in the ‘Our Place’ Agenda item. 

HAVE YOUR SAY

Cllr Bannerman opened up the meeting to the audience to ask any questions or to raise issues:

Traffic:  A member of the audience raised a recent press article that reported that Shropshire Council had formed a working group of officers to look at traffic flow and questioned whether this group is now up and running.

Cllr Bannerman explained that a lot of work had been undertaken in the town in key locations such as at the bottom of Wyle Cop and St Julians’ Friars. He added that it is obvious that we need to make walking and shopping much easier to increase visitor spend and the example of the Museum was given where access must be made more attractive and welcoming. Work has been undertaken with the Portfolio Holder for Highways, Cllr Claire Wilde.

A resident reflected on her experience of living in Cambridge that had gradually been transformed into an extremely pedestrian friendly city.

A representative of Shrewsbury Friends of the Earth explained that they were currently undertaking some work on a proposal to reduce traffic. This was welcomed and a presentation to a future meeting of this Forum was suggested.

Cllr Chebsey reflected on the Shrewsbury 3 point access plan that was developed some years ago. This may not have achieved great physical change but did greatly improve people's understanding of each other's needs and issues.  There is a case for this type of forum being rekindled.

Cllr Chebsey urged caution around doing odd projects without there being a bigger strategic plan and welcomed the formation of a Forum to bring all these parties together.

Although Shropshire Council is the Highways authority, the Town Council can put forward proposals.  The STC Planning Committee regularly discusses Highways issues and it was suggested that Friends of the Earth ask to address this committee.

The Town Council does have a Planning Committee where highways issues are regularly discussed. This is a good meeting for the Friends of the Earth to come to and raise fresh ideas.

Concern was raised over the current levels of traffic at Sundorne sports village on a Sunday due to the success of the Sunday League games and in particular how a new pool being sited there could further impact on this.

Discussion took place around funding from the Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) that has funding to support traffic work in Shrewsbury. Cameras and traffic counters are currently measuring flow and numbers in the town and some funding is specific to particular locations e.g. inner roundabouts to ease movement around the town.

Concern was raised over the lack of effective wayfinding in the town, particularly for elderly coach visitors. It was confirmed that a project is being developed around wayfinding. 

Affordable Housing: a member of the audience raised concern over the lack of availability of affordable housing and in particular that the two urban extensions are under supplying and that the developers must be challenged. 

Cllr Bannerman felt that all of these items made good agenda items for discussion at a future meetings.

Cllr Bannerman thanked everyone for their attendance, particularly George Candler and Sgt Coles.

The meeting closed at 9:10pm.