Matthew Ellison, of sensor provider Kisters, with Councillor Sarah Marston and Matt Smith, RSPAWIR programme manager

New sensor technology is being rolled out across peatland sites in north Shropshire to help farmers better understand and manage these environmentally important landscapes.

Delivered through the River Severn Partnership Advanced Wireless Innovation Region (RSPAWIR), and the Marches Future Farming Group, which is part of the Severn Valley Water Management Scheme demonstrator programme, the project will install a network of wireless sensors across multiple peatland fields, providing real-time data on groundwater levels and soil conditions.

Peatlands are vital for carbon storage, water management and biodiversity but are vulnerable to drying out, particularly during prolonged dry periods. The new technology will allow conditions to be monitored remotely and in real time, improving understanding of how peatland systems respond to changing weather and land use.

This will give farmers and land managers a clearer picture of how their land is functioning and support more informed decision-making.

Sarah Marston, Shropshire Council cabinet member with responsibility for the environment, said:-

“North Shropshire contains large areas of lowland peat. This is highly productive farmland, but across the country it also stores around 3% of the UK’s greenhouse gasses.

“With climate change leading to longer drier periods, these gasses will be released if the peat loses its moisture. It’s fantastic to see our farming community responding to this challenge by working together and utilising innovative technology.”

Matt Smith, programme manager for RSPAWIR, said:-

“This project is just one of a range of water-based agri-tech use cases that have been funded by the RSPAWIR. It fits into a wider project, initiated by the Shropshire Wildlife Trust that will collectively see 125 hectares of lowland peat monitored using wireless technology.”

The system combines groundwater and soil moisture sensors, carefully positioned to detect changes in water levels and transmit data continuously. By bringing these datasets together, farmers and partners will gain a more detailed understanding of how water moves through each field, supporting more effective land management.

Kate Mayne of the North Shropshire Farmers’ Group, which is leading the project for the Marches Future Farming Group, added:-

“By improving understanding of peat condition, the work will help reduce carbon loss from degraded peat, strengthen the evidence base for restoration and support more resilient farming systems.

“We are looking for insights as the project develops, including how real-time data can support practical decisions to maintain moisture levels, protect productivity and enhance biodiversity.”

 About the RSPAWIR: The RSPAWIR, managed by Shropshire Council, has received £4 million in funding from the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology to support the growth of advanced wireless innovation across key economic sectors and is one of ten innovation regions nationally to receive funding.

RSPAWIR focuses on accelerating the adoption of advanced wireless technologies across three sectors with strong roots in the catchment area: water management, agri‑tech and the public sector.

About the SVWMS: The SVWMS is a cross-border initiative led by the Environment Agency, in partnership with Natural Resources Wales, Powys County Council, and Shropshire Council, and funded by Defra. Its aim is to develop a holistic water management strategy for the upper Severn, which could serve as a model for similar projects nationwide.

Residents across the county are being reminded that Shropshire Local and Shropshire Local Mobile are here to offer in-person, face-to-face support, advice and practical help with the rising cost of living.

Through the services, residents can find out about – and apply for – the Crisis and Resilience Fund, which is available to help people on low incomes who are struggling with essential living costs or facing a sudden financial shock. Support available through the fund includes crisis payments, housing support and heating oil support for eligible households, as well as access to wider advice and assistance. The fund is available even if someone does not receive benefits.

Team Leader Veena Grundmanis and Customer Service Advisor Sally Kamara at Shropshire Local at The Guildhall, Shrewsbury: “We’ll take as long as needed to help customers.”

Shropshire Council offers a wide range of cost-of-living support for residents, including help with council tax, benefits, free school meals, Blue Badges, concessionary travel, energy costs and money worries.

Shropshire Local and Shropshire Local Mobile can help people understand what they may be entitled to and support residents to access the right services. Shropshire Local have mobile drop-ins all over our county making it easier to talk to an advisor face-to-face.

Councillor Sarah Marston, Portfolio Holder for Communities and Environment, said:

“We know many residents are continuing to feel the pressure of higher household costs, and for some people it can be difficult to know where to turn for help. Shropshire Local and Shropshire Local Mobile play an important role in making support easier to access, whether someone needs advice, help with an application, or information about the Crisis and Resilience Fund, including heating oil support. I would encourage anyone who is worried about money or struggling with essential costs to get in touch and find out what support may be available.”

Veena Grundmanis, Shropshire Local Team Leader, added:

“So many people don’t know what benefits and services they’re entitled to. We take the time to sit down with customers and talk through what’s bothering them. Very often, a customer will come in looking for help applying for a service or benefit, and we’re able to point them towards lots of other ways we can help. There’s never any rush – we make people feel welcome, get to understand their issues, and find ways to get them the support they need. We’ve got the expertise – and for me, it’s a case of just listening closely to people. So whether that means applying for the Crisis and Resilience Fund, other cost-of-living support, or just showing people how to make an application online, we’ll take as long as needed to help customers.”

People can find out more about cost-of-living help through Shropshire Council’s website, by contacting Shropshire Local, or by speaking to the Shropshire Local Mobile team when it visits their area.

Shropshire Local: The Guildhall in Shrewsbury, week days between 9.30am and 5pm: Shropshire Local – Shrewsbury | Shropshire Council

And at Ludlow Library, week days (except Thursday) between 9.30am and 5pm: Shropshire Local – Ludlow | Shropshire Council

Shropshire Local Mobile visits locations across the county, including Broseley, Oswestry, Whitchurch, Shifnal, Market Drayton, Albrighton, Highley and Bishop’s Castle. For dates and locations, visit: Shropshire Local Mobile | Shropshire Council

Harlescott Lane in Shrewsbury is to be resurfaced from Monday 6 to Friday 24 July [2026] as part of Shropshire Council’s 2026/27 resurfacing programme.

Work will be carried out on weekdays only, and in three phases, when the road will be closed – as follows:

• Phase 1 (Week 1) – Crossroads (Lidl) to Lancaster Road – road closed from 9.30am to 4pm.
• Phase 2 (Week 2) – Lancaster Road to Battlefield Way (night work) – road closed from 8pm to 6am.
• Phase 3 (Week 3) – Battlefield Way to Ellesmere Road – road closed from 9.30am to 4pm.

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.

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 are being 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/

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

Watch: Councillor Rob Wilson explains the improvements and other changes

A new Ellesmere to Wem bus service and evening park and ride buses in Shrewsbury are amongst a number of improvements to be introduced later this year, following a review of 21 local bus services supported by Shropshire Council.

In addition the 64 Market Drayton to Shrewsbury service will be protected – using council funding.

Other services that will be retained include: the 437 Broseley-Much-Wenlock- Shrewsbury; 501 Ellesmere to Shrewsbury; 553 Bishop’s Castle to Plox Green (and on to Shrewsbury); 558 Montgomery to Shrewsbury; the 301 Market Drayton town service; and the 701 (Ludlow North) and 702 (Ludlow South).

In Shrewsbury the 20 (Radbrook Green), 23 (Preston Street/Belvidere) and 26 (Meole Village) services will also continue to operate.

The review – carried out as part of the council’s 2026 bus retendering programme – will see new bus services, new more accessible buses, and improved timetables. A number of services will have a new operator and some will stop.

The review has considered the number of passengers using each service – and the cost per passenger journey – and is taking place in the context of reduced Government revenue funding for local bus services, alongside increasing operating costs across the transport sector. Shropshire Council would have to find an additional £1.25 million to continue providing the services as they are now.

The programme includes the 21 services whose five-year contract runs out this year and that are therefore up for review and retender.

The changes to be introduced later this year include:

Shrewsbury Park & Ride​: From 1 November 2026 the three sites will be consolidated into two – Oxon and Harlescott – and the Meole Brace service will be suspended. The operating hours of the Oxon and Harlescott park and ride services will be extended to 10pm, Monday to Saturday. ​

Wem/Ellesmere​: Replace the existing limited town services with a single combined service running six days a week between the two towns, that will provide access to the railway station and other essential services in Wem.​ Service to start on 1 September 2026

Ludlow town network​: Withdraw the very low‑use Park & Ride on 1 September 2026 and focus resources on town centre services, with the introduction of new accessible buses.

Shrewsbury town network​: Withdraw very low‑use services from 1 September 2026 and retain/improve core links where they provide the greatest benefit.​

Inter-urban corridors​: Protect key services operating between market towns.​

For more details about the changes see Bus service review 2026 details

Rob Wilson, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for transport and regeneration, said:

“Bus services are vitally important to many people across the county and despite the financial challenges we will be protecting key routes and services, improving local connections and making a number of other improvements.

“We’re having to deal with increasing costs alongside reduced funding, which means we have to work harder to deliver the best possible transport network with the resources available, and this has left with some difficult choices.

”But despite these challenges we will be retaining many important services, and making a number of improvements.”

New bus shelters will electronic real-time information will be installed at Oswestry and Market Drayton bus stations in July 2026, and at the Oxon and Harlescott park and ride sites in Shrewsbury in August 2026.

News from our partners

Dr Jess Harvey, a local GP and key partner in Shropshire’s neighbourhood health work, has received national recognition at the NHS Excellence Awards 2026.

Driving force: Dr Harvey at the awards

Jess has been a driving force behind the county’s neighbourhood health implementation programme, championing strong partnership working across the NHS, Shropshire Council, and voluntary sector colleagues, supporting the council’s wider priorities around prevention and helping people to live well in their communities.

Her work reflects the shared ambition across Shropshire to deliver more joined up, community-based care that supports residents to stay well and live independently.

Rachel Robinson, executive director of public health at Shropshire Council, said:

“This is a well-deserved accolade, and we are proud to celebrate Jess’s leadership, including her commitment to developing relationships and joined-up working across Shropshire’s health and care system.

“Jess has been a driving force behind the county’s neighbourhood working, developing local health and wellbeing centres, driving the neighbourhood health implementation programme in partnership, championing strong partnership working across the NHS, Shropshire Council, and the voluntary sector, supporting our wider priorities around prevention and helping people to live well in their communities.

“Her work reflects a shared ambition across Shropshire, supporting residents to stay well and live independently. It is great to see this approach recognised on the national stage and this award marks an important step in an ongoing journey to further improve outcomes across Shropshire.”

Read more: Local GP, Dr Jess Harvey, triumphs at national NHS Excellence Awards 2026 – NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin

As England play their first World Cup fixture, 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.

Families looking for a fun and inspiring day out this summer will find plenty to enjoy at Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery (SMAG), in Shropshire.

Over the summer SMAG will be hosting a huge variety of hands-on creative activities, special events and inspirational exhibitions.

With free admission to the galleries, affordable workshops and activities, easy access by public transport and a central town location, Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery offers a relaxed, family-friendly day out this summer.

family fun at Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery

For families wanting to enjoy quality time together over the school summer holidays, there is plenty to discover.

The galleries are packed with thousands of objects and displays that bring Shropshire’s story to life, from its earliest beginnings through Roman, Medieval and Victorian times. Family-friendly exhibits, puzzles and games help children explore as they go, with hands-on activities including the chance to try on medieval hats and a Roman soldier’s helmet.

From 4 July to 31 August, SMAG will play a central role in the Shrewsbury Arts Trail 2026, showcasing a host of art and sculpture by internationally recognised artists. This year, the exhibition is curated around the stunning impressionist painting, An Ancient Stronghold in France by Wynford Dewhurst, on loan from Bradford Museums & Galleries, and will also feature a striking large-scale contemporary response commissioned from artist Ian Rayer-Smith. The Trail also features the Open Exhibition, showcasing work by local and regional artists of all backgrounds.

Creative adventures continue with Art Explorers on 28 July and 4 August, giving children age 2-11 the chance to enjoy art activities in a relaxed and welcoming setting. Art Camp follows on 6 August for young people aged 11–18, with a full day of drawing, printmaking and mixed media inspired by the museum’s collections.

Get Creative on 14, 21 and 28 August offers children age 5-11 the opportunity to experiment with different materials, develop new skills and enjoy making art in an inspiring environment. Families are invited to celebrate the Festival of Archaeology with local archaeologist, Natasha Harlow  on 18 July. Plants and People, Past and Future offers attendees a gallery tour, discussion and chance to try the historic skill of making string from plant fibres (suitable for adults and curious minds age 11+). For the costs of each workshop and ticketing details checkout  Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery – Shropshire Museums

The Museum’s family friendly café offers homemade cakes, coffees and delicious brunch options. New for summer 2026 is the Summer Sizzle barbecue in the café courtyard on 4 and 11 July. There is no need to book, just drop in and buy your ticket on the door.

The museum also offers regular events throughout the year for babies, young children and their families. These include the warm and welcoming Museum Babies sessions, specially designed for non-walking babies and their parents and carers, as well as LGBTQ+ at SMAG, a relaxed monthly meet-up on the first Saturday of the month where LGBTQ+ families with young children can enjoy play, chat, coffee and cake together in a friendly and supportive space. Details can be found on the website.

Alex Wagner, Shropshire Council’s portfolio holder for culture, said:

“Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery is a wonderful place for local families and visitors to the county to spend time together, discover something new and enjoy everything the museum has to offer. With free admission to the galleries, affordable workshops and activities, a warm welcome and so much for children and adults to explore, it is a fantastic family-friendly destination at the heart of Shrewsbury.”

Admission to Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery is free, with donations encouraged to support the museum’s work. Some activities and workshops are charged for and should be booked in advance. The museum is open Tuesday- Saturday (closed Sundays and Mondays) from 10am-4pm.

For full details about Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery, visit the website. Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery – Shropshire Museums

Notes to editors

For more information, images, interviews or an opportunity to visit, contact paul.gossage@shropshire.gov.uk

The Marches Future Farming Project, part of the Severn Valley Water Management Scheme (SVWMS) demonstrator programme which is managed by Shropshire Council, is encouraging local farmers to share their experiences as part of this research.

The study is being led by the Centre for Research into Environmental and Sustainable Transition at the University of Chester, working alongside Faulkner Mayne Sustainable Agriculture and Maesmawr Group (Natur a Ni).

Sarah Faulkner, of Faulkner Mayne Sustainable Agriculture, said:-

“Farming in the Severn catchment is already being affected by changing weather patterns. Flooding, waterlogging and wider water-related challenges are having a real impact on day-to-day operations, long-term land management and farm incomes. This research is looking to better understand those impacts from the perspective of the people experiencing them.

“It also aims to gather views on nature-based solutions and other ways of managing water, alongside understanding what practical support farmers need. This includes how schemes like SVWMS can work better on the ground, with fair payment, clear guidance and easier access to funding.”

Tom Dainty, Shropshire Council deputy Cabinet member with responsibility for flooding,  said:-

“Farmers and land managers have an essential role to play in shaping how we manage water across the Severn catchment. This survey is about listening to those with first-hand experience, so we can develop practical, fair and effective support that works on the ground. We would strongly encourage anyone farming in the area to take part and help us build a scheme that reflects the realities they face.

“The feedback gathered will play a direct role in shaping the future direction of the Severn Valley Water Management Scheme. The aim is to make sure it reflects the realities of farming in the Marches and supports businesses in a way that works in practice, while also benefiting local communities and the wider environment.”

Sarah added:-

“If you farm or manage land in the Severn catchment, your experience is invaluable. Taking part in the survey is an opportunity to make sure your voice is heard and to help influence how support is designed in the future.”

To take part in the survey please follow the link here.

The A495 between Ellesmere and Whittington was one road surface dressed

More than 70 stretches of road across Shropshire have been treated this spring and summer as part of Shropshire Council’s 2026 surface dressing programme – work that will play a key role in improving the county’s roads and preventing potholes.

Work began on 22 April and was completed at the start of June.

The 72 sites are located across the county and include all types of road, from urban roads to major ‘A’ and ‘B’ roads.

David Vasmer, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for highways and waste, said:

“Surface dressing plays a key role in improving roads across the county and preventing potholes.

“This year’s programme has seen more than 70 stretches of road treated, and I want to thank all local residents and road users for their patience and understanding while work was carried out. The work really will make a difference to their roads and help to prevent potholes and other defects forming in the future.

“Work was completed ahead of schedule and on budget and I want to thank all involved in delivering this year’s programme, including Kier, and Hazell and Jefferies, who carried out the work.

In addition to the surface dressing work, a further 90 roads across Shropshire are being resurfaced this year.

This year’s surface dressing programme in numbers:

• Roads surface dressed: 72
• Total surface area: 748,356m2 (equal to 105 football pitches)
• Roads surface sealed*: 17
• Total area sealed seal coverage: 181,766 m2 (equal to 25 football pitches)

*Roads are sealed with Lockchip, a solution sprayed on a newly surface dressed road to seal any loose chippings and prolong its lifespan

Materials used:

• Bitumen emulsion – 1.3million litres
• Stone: 10,200 tonnes
• Binder: 1.5 million litres

About surface dressing

Surface dressing is a quick, efficient and cost-effective way of preventing potholes, maintaining skid-resistance and waterproofing road surfaces. It forms a major part of the council’s annual road maintenance programme and is being carried out alongside other preventative and reactive maintenance work.

Surface dressing involves applying and rolling aggregate ‘chippings’ onto a bitumen binder. It will seal the surface, improve surface texture and prolong the life of the road by many years.

Collection point

A new 24/7 medication collection point will be launched this week in Ludlow, improving access to healthcare services for residents while demonstrating how targeted funding can help drive innovation in Shropshire.

The new facility, installed by Lunts Pharmacy, allows patients to securely collect their prescriptions at any time of the day or night.

It was made possible through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund’s Small Equipment Grant scheme for businesses, which has helped numerous businesses across Shropshire to innovate and grow. The grant enabled MSN Pharmacy Group to invest in the specialist equipment needed to introduce the new service.

The collection point is expected to benefit a wide range of residents, including those working irregular hours, people with caring responsibilities, and individuals living in rural areas where accessing services during standard opening times can be challenging.

This installation marks the first of its kind for MSN Pharmacy Group and is believed to be among the first 24/7 prescription collection points introduced within a community pharmacy setting in Shropshire.

Ravi Nagra, founder and co-CEO of MSN Pharmacy Group, said:

“We are continually looking for ways to improve access to healthcare services for our patients. The introduction of this 24/7 collection point gives patients greater flexibility and convenience, allowing them to collect their medication when it suits them rather than being restricted by traditional opening hours.

We are extremely grateful for the support provided through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Shropshire Council, which helped make this project possible.”

The Ludlow installation is being delivered as a pilot, with the potential for a wider rollout across the pharmacy group’s network if successful.

Alex Wagner, deputy leader of Shropshire Council and Cabinet member for transformation and economic growth, said:

“This is an excellent example of how targeted investment through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund has supported local businesses to innovate while delivering tangible benefits for our communities.

“By helping businesses like Lunts Pharmacy adopt new technology, we are not only strengthening local services but also improving accessibility for residents, particularly in our rural areas.

It reflects our commitment to supporting economic growth that makes a real difference to people’s everyday lives.”

Notes to editors

Shropshire Council was awarded £15 million through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund in 2022 to support local projects, alongside additional funding for 2025 to 2026 to continue delivery. These investments were designed to promote business growth, strengthen communities and enhance local services across the county.

From 2023 to 2026 the Small Equipment Grant Scheme has supported 112 Shropshire businesses.

For further information on UK Shared Prosperity Fund projects in Shropshire and post-project evaluations, visit:
www.investinshropshire.co.uk/uk-shared-prosperity-projects/

MSN Pharmacy Group is an independent community pharmacy group serving communities across Shropshire and the West Midlands