THE population of Shropshire has risen by more than five per cent in the last 10 years, according to the 2021 Census.

A breakdown of the the 2021 Census by Shropshire Council has shown there was a total population of 323,600 – a 5.7 per cent rise from 306,100 in 2011.

Early headlines show that in March 2021, there were 316,300 Shropshire residents living in 139,600 households.

This means there has been a 7.6 per cent rise in the number of households since the 2011 Census, compared to a rise of 6.2 per cent nationally while around 7,300 people lived in communal establishments.

Average household size remains at 2.3 persons per household in 2021 – 21,500 people aged 66 and over now live alone compared with 18,100 aged 65 and over in 2011.

The average age of Shropshire’s population has also risen to 48, from 44 in 2011, compares with 40 years nationally.

Rob Gittins, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for digital and culture, said the breakdown of the differing information from the most recent Census is crucial to setting out priorities for the unitary authority in years to come.

He said: "This second phase of the Census results will provide a rich picture of life in Shropshire during a challenging period of social and economic change.

"The information is incredibly important for our understanding of the current and future needs of Shropshire’s residents, helping the council to make informed decisions and shape future service planning”

James Walton, Shropshire Council’s Executive director for resources, added staff at Shirehall are now working ont he date they have received in order to put together new plans and policies, moving forward.

He said: “This second release of the 2021 Census results is very much welcomed.

"We will be exploring the results to better understand how Shropshire residents are living, working, studying, travelling and managing their health and wellbeing, at the beginning of this decade.

"With the recent launch of the Shropshire Plan, the wide-ranging census results will help ensure the Council’s actions and priorities are directed wisely.

"This will help with supporting communities, meeting the needs of Shropshire’s growing and ageing population and shaping services such as schools, libraries, healthcare and housing.”

More data breakdowns will be coming between now and January next year, the council.