Lead Member – Councillor Chris Schofield, Portfolio Holder for Planning and Regulatory Services

Lead Officer – Andy Wigley

RESOLVED:

·       To approve an eight week public consultation on the Draft Oswestry Shop Front Design Guide: Standing Pre-Application Advice Note – see Appendix 1.

·       That authority is given to the Executive Director of Place, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Planning and Regulatory Services, to agree any additional minor-changes to the Draft Oswestry Shop Front Design Guide: Standing Pre-Application Advice Note ahead of this consultation.

The Portfolio Holder for Planning and Regulatory Services presented the report which sought approval to undertake a public consultation on the draft Oswestry Shop Front Design Guide, which aimed to ensure that future shop front designs in Oswestry are in keeping with the town's historic character while supporting modern businesses.

Members welcomed the report and questioned how the guide would help with enforcement against shops not complying with conservation area standards. The Portfolio Holder explained that the guide would provide a baseline for enforcement and help ensure that new shop fronts are in keeping with the historic character of the area.

Members queried the impact of the guide on the decline of the High Street and how it could be applied to other communities. Members noted that the guide would help reverse the decline of the High Street by ensuring that shop fronts are attractive and in keeping with the town's character. It could also serve as a template for other market towns in Shropshire.

The Portfolio Holder emphasised the importance of community input during the consultation process.

Members praised the joint working between Shropshire Council, the Town Council, the BID community, and Heritage England. Particular thanks were given to the historic environment team for their work on the guide.

RESOLVED:

·       To approve an eight week public consultation on the Draft Oswestry Shop Front Design Guide: Standing Pre-Application Advice Note – see Appendix 1.

·       That authority is given to the Executive Director of Place, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Planning and Regulatory Services, to agree any additional minor-changes to the Draft Oswestry Shop Front Design Guide: Standing Pre-Application Advice Note ahead of this consultation.