Cleobury Mortimer residents to be consulted on town improvements

Press release - 20 June 2007

Shropshire County Council is to ask residents of Cleobury Mortimer if they would like a scheme to enhance the environment of the town centre, and improve pedestrian safety, to proceed. All households in the town will receive a letter and feedback form in the first two weeks of July setting out the proposals and asking for their views.

The Cleobury Mortimer Town Centre Enhancement Scheme aims to improve the image of the town centre, while addressing demands for better pedestrian facilities, minimising impacts on parking and tackling traffic concerns.

The scheme has been developed through a number of stages of public consultation over the last three years, beginning in November 2004 when household surveys relating to transport and traffic within Cleobury Mortimer were carried out.

It was presented to the public at a consultation event in September 2006 and was supported by the majority of people attending. However, a number of specific concerns were raised over the potential impact of a zebra crossing on parking availability and loading space for traders.

Councillor John Everall, Shropshire County Council’s Cabinet member for the environment, said: “As it has unfortunately not been possible to achieve a clear consensus on implementing the scheme, the county council has reviewed it and is now putting forward two options to one final round of public consultation.

“Residents will be asked to consider if they would like to see the scheme go ahead or not, and which of two locations for a zebra crossing they would prefer. The advantages and disadvantages of each option will be clearly set out.”

Adrian Coles, Shropshire County Councillor for the area, said: "It is very important that everyone gives their views on the scheme. Response rates need to be high in order for the county council to be clear what the community of Cleobury Mortimer wants."

Large scale plans of the proposals will be available to view at Lacon Childe School, Cleobury Mortimer Primary School, Cleobury Mortimer Library and in the window of Cleobury Mortimer Market Hall.

ENDS

For further information, call Martin Withington, Acting Head of Transport Policy, Economy & Environment, on (01743) 253131.
For media contact, call Gareth Proffitt, Communications Officer, on (01743) 252828.

ref: Cleobury Mortimer enhancements / CU/07/101
date: 20 June 2007