Schoolchildren from Mereside Primary School in Shrewsbury joined with Shropshire Council and faith representatives in an interfaith ceremony to commemorate the Srebrenica genocide, on Tuesday 7 July at 10am, at the memorial cherry tree planted outside Shirehall in Shrewsbury.

Remembering Srebrenica cherry tree planting ceremony

The ceremony is held every year at the tree, which formally commemorates the role of the armed forces in humanitarian efforts including the genocide that befell the Muslim community in Srebrenica. This saw 8,000 Bosnian Muslim people, mainly men and boys, brutally murdered because of their faith.

During the ceremony, there were three Srebrenica prayers, one for each of the world faiths of Christianity, Islam and Judaism, as well as the lighting a memorial three-wick candle symbolising these three world faiths.

Cathy Landau from the Telford Interfaith Council shared the story of Hatidza, as a personal story of how a mother lost her husband and sons in the genocide; Imam Sohayb Peerbhai, for South Shropshire Interfaith Forum, then read the Jewish prayer for Srebrenica.

Cllr Dartnall read the Christian prayer and talked to the children about their school values and how these link in with the messages of respecting each other’s faiths. The children themselves read out prayers and some of their flower promises, as well as helping to light the candle before placing their promises on the tree.

Mark Cosens for the Shrewsbury Interfaith Forum then read the Muslim prayer to bring the ceremony to a close.

Srebrenica tree promises

Cllr Dartnall said:

“It was lovely to spend time with the children from Merlin Class at Mereside, who even though they are year 5, they really understood and were able to share their school values and reflect with us about how these link in with the theme of “We Are Here” as well. Their prayers and promises were really moving and they are a real credit to their school”.

Cllr Andy Hall, portfolio holder for children and education, said:

“I am absolutely delighted to hear that the ceremony went so well and that it was such a meaningful occasion for everyone involved. It sounds as though the children, school, and representatives from the different faith communities all played an important part in making the event so special. The children’s readings and flower promises must have been particularly moving.

“My sincere thanks also go to Cllr Dartnall for her unwavering support and commitment to this important work. Her contribution and advocacy are greatly appreciated.”

The Srebrenica Flower is a symbol of remembrance of the Srebrenica Genocide in Bosnia. Its eleven petals represent the day the genocide began, on 11^th July 1995. Their white colour represents the innocence of its victims. The flower’s green centre represents hope for justice and recognition of the genocide.

Our focus is also upon the humanitarian role of the armed forces, with the tree planted to commemorate not only the liberation of Bergen-Belsen in WW2, in which the King’s Shropshire Light Infantry were involved, but also the continuing role of service men and service women, at Srebrenica and in other genocides and conflicts around the world since then.

Remembering Srebrenica is a charitable organisation whose aim is to raise awareness of the genocide in Bosnia and bring people together to tackle hatred and help build safer, stronger communities in the UK.

 For more information, please see resources on the following websites

Remembering Srebrenica website: www.srebrenica.org.uk

HMD Trust website: www.hmd.org.uk

The council’s recognises that the Home Office’s plans for Dutton Close have been a matter of significant local interest, and understands the strength of feeling and the significant impact this has had within the community and beyond.

Heather Kidd, Leader of Shropshire Council said:

“We welcome this announcement and the Home Office decision on this matter as we have been clear and consistent in our discussions with both the Home Office and Serco that we did not believe Dutton Close was a suitable location for this type of accommodation.

Shropshire Council would like to thank local residents, the parish council, elected members, partners and officers for the constructive way they have raised concerns and worked with us during a difficult and sensitive situation.”

Changes have been made to the current resurfacing work on Harlescott Lane in Shrewsbury.

Work is being carried out from 6 to 24 July [2026] in three phases, which have now been revised, as below.

• Revised Phase 1 (Week 1 and 2) – Battlefield Way to Ellesmere Road.
  Dates: 6 to 10 July (9.30am to 4pm), and 13 to 15 July (8pm to 6am)
• Phase 2 (week 2) – Lancaster Road to Battlefield Way (including work remaining from Phase 1).
  Dates: 13 to 18 July, 8pm to 6am (as planned).
• Revised Phase 3 (Week 3) – Harlescott Lane crossroads (Lidl) to Lancaster Road
  Dates: 20 to 24 July (9.30am to 4pm)

The original plans have been revised as:

1. Network Rail weren’t able to to supervise the section covering the level crossing at the time the council wanted. As a result the phases have been reversed and work has begun with what was Phase 3.
2. Due to the recent hot weather and related material supply issues, the now Phase 1 work won’t be completed by today (Friday 10 July) as planned.

To minimise disruption during daytime hours and ensure the programme remains on track, the remaining Phase 1 work will now be carried out overnight, alongside Phase 2.

During the closures access to the work areas will be maintained for the following:

• Residents living within the closure, when safe to do so.
• Businesses located within the closure, when safe.
• Pedestrians, dismounted cyclists and equestrians
• Emergency vehicles (blue light calls)

For all other traffic a signed diversion will be place. Depending on their vehicle type, road users may be able to choose an alternative diversion route.

There will be no vehicle access permitted over the level crossing during the road closure.

People are asked to ensure vehicles are not parked on the road whilst the work is in progress.

This year more than 90 stretches of road across Shropshire are being resurfaced by Shropshire Council, and more than 70 have been surface dressed.

A dedicated team of volunteers has successfully renovated seven bunkers at Shrewsbury’s Meole Brace Golf Course, transforming them from weed-infested and uneven hazards into well-presented and fully playable features.

One of the bunkers that was renovated

The work involved clearing vegetation, removing stones, reshaping bunker edges, levelling and raking sand to improve both the appearance and playability of the course.

Shropshire Council assumed direct responsibility for the grounds’ maintenance contract on 1 June 2026 and subsequently held its first volunteer evenings on 24 June and 8 July 2026.

Sarah Marston, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for communities and environment, said:

“This achievement is a fantastic example of what can be accomplished through teamwork, collaboration and a shared commitment to improving Meole Brace Golf Course.

The dedication, enthusiasm and hard work shown by our volunteers has made a real difference to the course and the experience of those who use it.

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to everyone who contributed their time and effort. Their support, together with the ongoing commitment of our staff, demonstrates the value of working together towards a common goal.”

In addition to the volunteers’ contribution, the Council continues to invest in the long-term improvement of the course. Phase 2 of the bunker improvement programme is scheduled to commence on 14 July 2026 and will focus on the remaining 19 bunkers. This work represents a significant step towards enhancing the overall quality, resilience and sustainability of the course.

The greenkeeping team, Simon, Alan and Peter, have been praised for their hard work, professionalism and commitment in maintaining the course to a good standard, particularly during the recent period of exceptionally hot weather. The excellent condition of the greens and fairways is a testament to their hard work.

Further thanks are extended to Will Shakespeare, Golf Professional, and his dedicated team of Aled and James, for their ongoing support, professionalism and commitment to the continued success of Meole Brace Golf Course.

The progress achieved in the last month especially reflects the strength of partnership working between volunteers, operational teams and green keepers  all working together to deliver the best possible experience for golfers.

By working collaboratively and maintaining a shared commitment to continuous improvement, Meole Brace Golf Course continues to provide an excellent experience for golfers both now and in the future.

News from our partners

Eligible young people across Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin are being encouraged to take up a time-limited offer of a free meningococcal group B (MenB) vaccination before starting university or further education this autumn.

National campaign image

As part of a one-off national catch-up vaccination programme launching in July 2026, thousands of young people across England will be offered protection against MenB disease ahead of entering higher and further education, where close and prolonged contact in shared accommodation and social settings can increase the risk of transmission.

Meningococcal disease is rare but can develop rapidly and become life-threatening. It can cause life-changing complications, including amputations, hearing loss and brain damage, and is fatal in around one in 10 cases.

The free two-dose vaccination course is essential for protection is available to:

• 17 to 18-year-olds (Year 13) born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008, registered with a GP in England will be invited to book appointments on the National Booking Service from 13 July 2026.
• People aged 24 or under starting university this autumn or entering some residential further education, can attend a pharmacy walk-in vaccination site from 20 July 2026.

Minesh Parbat, Chief Pharmacist and Clinical Director of Strategic Medicines Commissioning, said:

 “Starting university or college is an exciting milestone, but it also brings new environments and increased close contact with others. While meningococcal disease is rare, it can progress very quickly and become life-threatening.”

“This national vaccination programme gives eligible young people a timely opportunity to protect themselves ahead of the new academic year. We strongly encourage those who are eligible to come forward for both doses as soon as they are offered.”

Pharmacist Nigel Dugmoore said:

“Meningococcal disease can become very serious very quickly. It spreads more easily where people are in close and prolonged contact, such as in university settings. Vaccination is the most effective way to protect yourself.”

“Two doses, given at least four weeks apart, are needed for full protection, so it’s important not to delay. Coming forward early helps ensure you are protected before starting university or college and gives peace of mind as you begin this new chapter.”

Eligible people should receive both doses at least four weeks apart to ensure the best possible protection.

To book a MenB vaccination or find your nearest pharmacy offering walk-in MenB vaccinations: National Booking Service

For more information about meningitis visit the NHS website: www.nhs.uk/conditions/meningitis/

For more information about the MenB vaccine visit: www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/menb-vaccine-for-children/

As England play their quarter final World Cup fixture this Saturday (11 July), match days can bring a mix of emotions — from excitement and celebration to frustration and disappointment.

Domestic abuse awareness poster

For some people, this can increase tension at home. While most people enjoy the game safely, factors such as alcohol use, gambling outcomes and heightened emotions can increase risk in some households.

Abuse is never acceptable, and responsibility always lies with the person choosing to use abusive behaviour.

Ruth Houghton, portfolio holder for adult social care and health, said:

“Shropshire Council is committed to reducing domestic abuse in Shropshire, which is why it is important for us all to work together around the World Cup where evidence indicates that a higher risk of domestic abuse incidents  can occur around sporting events such as this.

“We recognise the potential increase of abuse due to associated behaviours that may appear around this sporting event and want to make sure that anyone affected  knows where to turn to for support at this time.”

If you are worried about your safety, or about someone else, support is available.

• You are not alone
• You deserve to feel safe
• You can speak to someone in confidence at any time.

To find support in Shropshire visit: https://next.shropshire.gov.uk/domestic-abuse/. Remember in an emergency, call 999, if you can’t speak press 55 for the silent solution.

If you’re concerned about someone: Check in when it is safe to do so, listen without judgement, encourage them to seek support. Small actions can make a big difference.

Enjoy the match, look out for one another, and help keep our communities safe.

The road from Queen’s Head to Rednal Mill – including the Queen’s Head junction –  is to be resurfaced from Monday 27 July to Sunday 23 August [2026] as part of Shropshire Council’s 2026/27 resurfacing programme.

Work will be carried out from 8.30am to 3.30pm each day. There will also be some night work from Thursday 13 to Saturday 15 August between 8pm and 6am. During these times a full road closure will be in place.

During the closures access to the work areas will be maintained for the following:

• • Residents living within the closure, when safe to do so.
  • Any businesses located within the closure, when safe.
  • Emergency vehicles (blue light calls)

For all other traffic a signed diversion will be place. Depending on their vehicle type, road users may be able to choose an alternative diversion route.

People are asked to ensure vehicles are not parked on the road whilst the work is in progress.

Work will be carried out by Kier Infrastructure on behalf of Shropshire Council.

For more information visit and search the One Network roadworks website.

The work involves resurfacing the road with a new asphalt layer, applied by a paving machine and compacted to create a smooth, durable surface. Resurfacing is a key part of maintaining our roads. It improves long-term road condition, helps prevent further structural issues, and reduces the need for smaller repairs such as filling potholes.

This year more than 90 stretches of road across Shropshire are being resurfaced by Shropshire Council, and more than 70 have been surface dressed.

All planned roadworks are subject to change due to weather conditions or unforeseen circumstances. Any changes will be displayed on the yellow advanced warning signs and on https://one.network/

The Marches Business Resilience Coalition (MBRC), established through the Marches Forward Partnership, met to review progress made since its inaugural meeting in March.

The coalition brings together public and private sector partners with a common interest in ensuring that investment, infrastructure, environmental management and economic growth are aligned to the region’s future needs.

The discussions focused on how organisations can work together to remove barriers to delivery, unlock investment and build greater resilience for businesses, communities and the environment.

Coalition members received updates on the strategic framework being developed through the partnership, including more detail on the proposals for a regional delivery vehicle, opportunities for greater policy and regulatory flexibility, and how the region can position itself with government.

The emerging outcomes of the Severn Valley Water Management Scheme, which is being proposed as the first integrated investment programme through which the partnership can test and demonstrate a new approach, were also shared.

Alex Wagner, deputy leader of Shropshire Council, said:-

“The meeting gave us an opportunity to explore how a programme of live projects will help build momentum, test new ways of working and create the foundations for larger-scale investment over time. We are keen to find out whether the current priorities are the right ones and what additional requirements need to be considered to support business resilience and economic growth.”

Glyn Preston, Powys County Council Cabinet member with responsibility for economic growth, added:-

“This meeting allowed us to demonstrate what the partnership can deliver for their organisations and to discover where their key assets and risks lie, and how future investment could better align with a regional approach.

“The discussions allowed us to focus on the data, insight and leadership that organisations can bring to support future investment decisions and strengthen our collective case to government.”

The coalition concluded its meeting with agreement on the key messages and priorities that partners want to champion, helping ensure the partnership speaks with a stronger and more coordinated voice on the opportunities and challenges facing the region.

Work is to be carried out at Grove Farm Culvert in Cardington, which will see the existing road closure maintained until work is completed..

Work is scheduled to start on 20 July [2026] and is expected to take up to three weeks.

It will involve rebuilding the downstream end of the existing culvert and resurfacing of the road.

To carry out the work safely, it will be necessary to maintain the existing road closure to vehicular traffic on a 24-hour, seven-day-a-week basis throughout the work.

While the road remans closed, traffic will continue to be diverted via local roads using the current signed diversion route.

Further information can be found at: https://one.network/?tmi=GB44845556

Access for pedestrians and dismounted cyclists will be maintained throughout the works whenever it is safe to do so.

All planned work is subject to change due to weather conditions or unforeseen circumstances. Any changes will be communicated via the yellow advance warning signs on site and through One.Network.

The work will be carried out by Shropshire Council’s term maintenance contractor, Kier, with supervision provided by WSP on behalf of Shropshire Council.

To inform the public of the proposals, advance warning signs will be erected at the site, and information letters will be delivered to nearby properties.

Due to the hot weather, recycling and waste collections in the Shropshire Council area will start at 6am on Thursday and Friday this week, rather than 7am.

This is to help the waste collection crews avoid the hottest times of the day.

Residents whose scheduled collection day is Thursday or Friday are asked to put their bins/boxes/bags out by 6am, and on the night before if possible.