Residents Voice Concerns Over 103 New Homes in Craven Arms

A consultation event held on February 16, 2024, at the Craven Arms Community Centre provided local residents with an opportunity to discuss plans for a new housing development. The proposal involves constructing 103 homes on a 4.5-hectare site to the west of Watling Street. Joint applicants SH Partnerships and Craven Arms Developments have indicated they will consider public feedback before submitting a formal application.

Community members voiced a range of opinions about the project, particularly regarding potential traffic congestion. Resident Evie Price expressed her concerns about the impact on Clun Road, stating, “Watling Street is already busy and is a single-track road.” She also raised questions about the proposed attenuation pond, which is designed to manage surface water runoff but would ultimately divert water to the sewage treatment works. Price mentioned that Severn Trent had plans to install a pipe from the nearby River Onny, adding to her confusion about the water management strategy.

Conversely, some residents support the project. Rizvan Khalid, a local resident, emphasized the necessity for affordable housing in the area. “The town needs more affordable housing,” he stated. “It caters for kids and families with four-bed homes. I think it’s a good thing.”

The application has garnered attention from local authorities as well. Ed Taylor, director of land promoter CB Collier, confirmed that discussions have taken place with Shropshire Council, Craven Arms Town Council, and Sibton Carwood Parish Council. “We realize it’s a big development for Craven Arms, but Craven Arms needs housing,” he noted. Taylor expressed hope that they could offer solutions to some of the identified constraints.

Concerns about flooding in the area have also surfaced. Councillor Josh Dickin, who represents Craven Arms, stated that while there are plans to address flooding issues, existing problems already pose challenges. “Speed is another issue on Clun Road, which needs to be addressed before more things happen,” he added. Dickin emphasized the importance of balanced growth in Shropshire, suggesting that development should be steady to ensure the future needs of the community are adequately met. He also raised questions about the definition of “affordable” housing, noting that individual financial circumstances vary widely.

As the consultation process continues, the future of the proposed housing development will depend on the developers’ response to community feedback and the planning authorities’ assessments.