Shrewsbury relief road called in by scrutiny

The decision by Shropshire County Council’s Cabinet to go ahead with the development of a possible north west relief road for Shrewsbury, is to be questioned by the Economy & Environment Scrutiny Panel.

The meeting, to take place this Thursday (21 February), will include discussions on the costs to date, how much more the scheme will cost due to the extended timetable, and the actual likelihood of being awarded regional funding, now that Transport Innovation Fund money is out of the question.

The panel will also look more closely into whether the scheme should progress, and how this weighs up with the costs and benefits.

Alan Mosley, Shropshire County Council’s Chair of the Economy & Environment Scrutiny Panel, said: “People continue to be concerned about the proposals to progress with the current plans, and whether it should be built.

“I would like to question the high ongoing costs of the scheme and how these will increase with the now extended timescale of possible delivery. It is also important to take into consideration what the scheme has cost to date.

“Another important factor is the potential for the county to get funding for such a scheme and whether we should enter into full consultation with members of the public now before committing to any further work.”

The meeting will take place at 5.00pm at the Shirehall in Shrewsbury and is open to the public. Anyone wishing to speak at this meeting should contact Martin Stevens, Shropshire County Council’s committee officer on (01743) 252722 or email martin.stevens@shropshire.gov.uk.

Cabinet decided on 30 January 2008 to agree to the development of the Shrewsbury North West Relief Road as a priority within the Local Transport Plan 2006/11.

18 February 2008