SHROPSHIRE Council has confirmed a commitment to develop a delivery plan named the ‘Future Oswestry plan’ to progress development and investment in the town.

Following a Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, December 14, the council says the Future Oswestry plan, created by the Future Oswestry Group, a group made up will now pave the way to transform Oswestry for its residents, visitors, and businesses.

The plan will focus on four key areas: Church Street quarter, Cambrian Gateway, Castle quarter and Mile End developments, all of which will feature various public realm, transport and placemaking enhancements.

The group, originally set up in 2019, has since led on projects such the High Street Heritage Action Zone (HSHAZ) project and the public consultation and engagement works as part of the Future Oswestry plan.

Councillor Mik Isherwood, for Oswestry West and Chair of the Future Oswestry group, said he was delighted with the confirmation of a project he believes is the culmination of collaborative work.

He said: “The Future Oswestry group is a real example of collaboration at its finest.

"The group is underpinned by a crucial commonality – that all partners want Oswestry to thrive in all aspects of our society.

"The group meets regularly to discuss ongoing projects within the town centre and is committed to the Future Oswestry plan cause and purpose.

"Since it was founded, the group has made all sorts of enhancements to Oswestry and its high street, many of which the community have noticed and appreciated.

"From restoring historic shopfronts and alleyways, to large-scale infrastructure projects, we are confident that this plan will create a future Oswestry that the community are proud to be a part of.

"I’m excited to see what the future holds.

"Residents and businesses know how much potential there is in the town in areas such as Festival Square, Bailey Head and Castle View, and the feedback received from residents and wider stakeholder groups has been a key driver within the plan.”

Adele Nightingale, manager of Oswestry Business Improvement District (BID), added: "Being part of the Future Oswestry group has really assisted us on getting some great projects off the ground and delivered.

"It helped us to secure the HSHAZ funding and gives us the space to work together and focus on what is needed.

"The Future Oswestry plan will give us the grounding to work towards aspirations while always being mindful of the ‘bigger picture’ which ensures that we continue to work collaboratively to deliver more initiatives and projects for Oswestry."

Councillor Dean Carroll, Cabinet member for growth, regeneration and housing, added: “As a council, we have listened to our community and stakeholders and as a result, established some key projects which can only add to the town’s character."