Leisure space up for grabs under Shrewsbury development plans
Leisure space in Shrewsbury could be up for grabs under proposals which are set to be approved by Shropshire Council next week.
The project, called Smithfield Riverside, is being led by the council and development partner RivingtonHark.
Under the proposals, the area between The Darwin centre, Roushill and the River Severn in Shrewsbury town centre will be redeveloped to create a mix of leisure, residential, office and outdoor public spaces.
Plans for Roushill Park – a new outdoor public space – will also be discussed.
If approval is given, a planning application for the demolition of the Riverside Shopping Centre and former Riverside medical practice will be triggered, to allow key enabling works and the construction of the park to take place.
Earlier this year, Shropshire Council with support from the Shrewsbury Big Town Plan Partnership – secured almost £19 million of Levelling Up Fund money from the Government to further support the town’s regeneration.
If the proposals are given the go-ahead, this will begin the process of a public consultation on the emerging masterplan.
Ian Nellins, deputy leader of Shropshire Council, said: “We are confident that the developing masterplan, including the demolition of the former Riverside shopping centre, is going to have a hugely positive impact on the town. This modern and sustainable new destination will open up the centre to embrace one our best assets, the River Severn, and help us attract new visitors, residents and workers into Shrewsbury – growing our local economy.”