‘Encouraging independent shops to maintain the individuality and market town image of Bridgnorth’ is one of the key priorities identified in the recently published Bridgnorth Town Plan, as are moves to create an arts centre in St Leonard’s Church and improvements to the town’s steps. The process has taken two years, but Bridgnorth’s first ever Town Plan was adopted by the town council at a meeting in December. Although the implementation of the plan is the responsibility of councils and other agencies, the actual production of the plan was firmly community-led by a dedicated group of volunteers. The main elements of the plan are highlighted in the form of an ‘action plan spreadsheet’ which can be viewed, along with the full town plan, on the website bridgnorthtown-plan.com. Hard copies can be viewed at Bridgnorth Library and at the Council Offices at St Leonard’s Close and Westgate.
A flyer with the summary of findings and recommended actions has also been widely distributed. The plan divides into key areas such as employment and training, the local environment and town appearance, sport, shopping and leisure facilities, housing, tourism, traffic and policing. There are also two separate areas for youth and business. Chairman of the steering group Ray Gill said: “The action plan is intended to focus attention on crucial areas that require action in order to produce a long term benefit for Bridgnorth.”
