Plans made to help regenerate Wem town centre

Plans have been made to improve the appearance of Wem’s empty shops, and to help the town’s businesses, following a meeting to discuss ways to regenerate the town.

The meeting (held on Thursday 4 February) between Shropshire Council, Wem Town Council, Wem Chamber of Commerce and regional business support agencies was held after the town’s two Shropshire Councillors expressed concerns about a recent increase in the number of empty premises in the High Street.

Now representatives from Shropshire Council’s economic development and community regeneration teams, together with Business Link and Advantage West Midlands, have agreed to take action on number of potential initiatives to help revitalise the town centre, and look at ways of supporting local businesses.

Pauline Dee and Chris Mellings, Shropshire Councillors for Wem, said: “We are concerned the number of empty shops is having an effect on the town and on local community spirit. Having requested this meeting we are pleased that it has now been held and look forward to positive action being taken to help the town and its traders. We are also looking to re-establish the Wem Economic Development Forum with the Chamber of Commerce that can focus on Wem-specific issues that will help re-generate our town.”

Councillor David Roberts, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for local environment and economy, said: “This was a really constructive meeting and we are now looking forward to initiating some of the actions discussed, such as improving the image of empty boarded up shops, the central car park, and also providing details about grant schemes that can support businesses through these difficult times.”

“Any help we can offer to revitalise our market towns is welcomed and I know our officers will work closely with all concerned to ensure that actions identified for Wem are taken forward with enthusiasm.”

Another meeting is due to be held between Shropshire Council and Wem Chamber of Commerce on 15 February to further discuss these plans.

Current empty premises in Wem discussed at the meeting on 4 February were:

- Former Martins Newsagents, High St
- Former Chester’s Greengrocers, High St
- Simply Drinks Off-Licence, High St
- Wem Insurance, High St/Mill St
- Former White Horse Public House, High St
- Former NFU, High Street
- Old Post Office Public House, High St
- Wealthfort Ltd, High St
- 7 High St
- Former JE Bailey Furniture Shop, Aston St
- Wem Motors, New St
- Redundant buildings at the rear of the White Lion Public House

9 February 2010

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