New commercial park granted

Plans to build a new commercial park on the outskirts of a north Shropshire town have finally been approved.

The outline scheme – which was submitted to Shropshire Council back in July 2024  by Timothy and Rosemary Rutter – would create over three hectares of new commercial, industrial and warehousing plots alongside a new hauliers yard on land between Shawbury Road and the railway line in Wem.

The development has the potential to create up to 420 permanent full time jobs for the Wem area once fully occupied.

At the time of the application being submitted, a supporting statement said: “The application seeks to provide a responsive and flexible supply of employment land and premises comprising a range and choice of sites in to meet the need of existing and new business, with investment in infrastructure to support its development and help to rebalance and revitalise Wem.

“The site is accessible, located at the optimal location for the town, and the plots would be of a range of sizes, with a planning consent that is flexible enough to allow the relocation of local businesses as well as providing space for other local economic development as these needs emerge.

“The yard will meet the needs of the applicant’s existing business and to future proof their plans for its future expansion.

“A building containing two bay HGV maintenance facility with offices, welfare facilities and parking of up to twenty HGVs and for the private vehicles of drivers, office staff, customers and visitors.”

Out of 14 public comments received, 11 objected – highlighting traffic and road safety concerns, environmental impact, and that there was inadequate infrastructure to support the development.

Supporting comments, meanwhile, highlighted the economic benefits the scheme would bring, and it would actually improve the infrastructure.

After receiving a Section 106 agreement, Shropshire Council has now granted planning permission.

“On balance, officers consider that the proposal, supported by the submitted plans and technical assessments, is acceptable and capable of being planning policy compliant,” said case officer, Jane Preece.