THERE’S a concerning double-dose of inactivity in Oswestry’s Church Street, where we’re still waiting for signs of new life now that summer’s approaching.

Back last September - after winning his planning go-ahead - Italian Enrico Vittone was bursting with enthusiasm over plans for a new 65-seater Roman-themed Italian eatery in Lawrence’s old stationery shop. Seven months later there’s little to see other than a dull plywood frontage.

And it’s the same across the road where Paul Fitton was equally enthusiastic in restoring the frontage of what was once the White Horse Hotel. It closed almost 60 years ago and was latterly a chemist shop which transferred to English Walls. Mr Fitton already has licensed premises in Church Street plus the Station Grill in Llansantffraid, and harbours dreams to restore the building back to its 1960s look, as a licensed restaurant and bar.

Gentlemen please use this column now, with an optimistic email update for we curious Oswestrians. You both occupy such crucial sites in our main street and we are desperate to see you succeed - in your new set of clothes!

Not holding any hope

EVEN Oswestry councillors share Reflections’ frustration with Future Fit’s perpetual dithering - by demanding a snappy decision on the future of our health services. Frustrations bowled over when Cllr Sandy Best, before taking over as our new Mayor last week, claimed consultations had already cost £4.5m while retiring Mayor Cllr Vince Hunt countered such cash could have been used to build a new hospital! Can it really be true we are nearing a decision - after yet a further ‘consultation’? I wouldn’t bet on it, with Future Fit’s record.

Village needs a hero

SURELY there’s at least one capable person around who could rescue Criftins Parish Hall PO from oblivion. The current post-mistress wants to retire but is hanging on for someone to take over. If no one does, the PO will shut and villagers will have to travel to Ellesmere or St Martins. If you, or a friend, are interested, do call parish hall trustee Kay Edgerton 01691 690250.

Help homeless project

WOULDN’T it be heartwarming, if the ‘not for profit’ group CHALK, manages to pull off its bid to establish a drop-in centre to offer hope to our homeless. CHALK wants to provide basic items like food, a shower and somewhere to clean clothes - as well as support them in finding employment. And it can succeed - if we all give it maximum support.

Splashing out the cash

DO you fancy a fun water sports centre in Ellesmere? Well one’s been suggested right out of the blue. Shropshire Council thinks its disused Swan Hill depot in the town could transform into a new ‘aqua centre cum play-facility and café’ and townsfolk are encouraged to have their say.