A HIGHWAYS depot in Whittington is to remain open – despite plans by Shropshire Council to close two others in the county.

Under the proposals, the depots at Bridgnorth and Hodnet would close with operations continuing at the three main depots in Whittington, Shrewsbury and Craven Arms.

No jobs would be lost as a result of the changes, which are intended to improve highways maintenance services in Shropshire.

Steve Charmley, cabinet member with responsibility for highways, said the changes come as part of a wider improvement plan.

He said: “The decision to close these two depots was taken to help provide a more effective services and as part of our wider operational improvement plan and wasn’t driven by cost savings.

“Indeed, the reduction in overheads will free up money that can be reinvested into our work to improve Shropshire’s roads.”

The focussing of operations from three depots at Whittington, Shrewsbury and Craven Arms means that the council, and its contractor Kier, can be co-located to improve communications, oversight and consistency in their work, the council says.

This is also intended to make the department more resilient in the event of staff absences.

Each of the three remaining depots will be managed by an area manager from both Shropshire Council and Kier, supported by local technicians and supervisors.