Shropshire Council’s Leader, and Cabinet member for transport and regeneration, have written to the Minister of State for Rail after the Office of Road and Rail (ORR) again rejected a proposal for a new direct rail service between Wrexham and London – something that had the full support of the council.

In their letter to Lord Hendy, Councillors Heather Kidd and Rob Wilson urge the Department for Transport and  Great British Rail to “to leave no stone unturned in exploring every possible option to restore direct rail services between Shropshire and London.”

The letter says:

The recent decision by the Office of Rail and Road to reject, for a second time, the West Midlands and Shropshire Railways (WSMR) proposal is deeply disappointing for our county, our residents and our businesses. While we respect the regulatory process, the outcome cannot be allowed to mark the end of efforts to reconnect Shropshire directly with the nation’s capital.

Shropshire remains the only county in England without a direct rail connection to London. At a time when the Government is rightly focused on economic growth, improving connectivity and unlocking opportunity across the country, this anomaly places our county at a significant disadvantage.

The Prime Minister has repeatedly spoken about delivering “growth in every postcode”. We strongly support that ambition. However, for communities across Shropshire, growth depends upon modern, reliable transport links that connect people to jobs, businesses to markets, and investors to opportunities. Direct services to London would be transformational in helping us achieve these objectives.

The accelerated transition of Avanti West Coast into public ownership and the wider programme of rail reform provide a unique opportunity to review service patterns on the West Coast Main Line and associated routes. We therefore ask that the Department for Transport and Great British Railways actively assess whether future publicly operated services could accommodate direct trains serving Shropshire, either through extensions of existing operations or through the development of new service patterns.

The economic case for enhanced rail connectivity is stronger than ever. Along the M54 corridor, significant growth opportunities are emerging across advanced manufacturing, logistics, defence, energy and technology sectors. These opportunities extend beyond county boundaries and are increasingly being developed through collaborative working with neighbouring authorities and partners.

In particular, the work being undertaken through the Marches Forward Partnership demonstrates the scale of ambition across Shropshire, and beyond into Wales.

Together, we are developing a compelling programme focused on economic growth, housing delivery, infrastructure investment and productivity improvements across one of the country’s most strategically important cross-border growth corridors.

The Government’s housing ambitions also reinforce the need for improved rail connectivity. Shropshire is preparing to accommodate substantial housing growth over the coming years. New homes must be supported by sustainable transport infrastructure that allows residents to access employment opportunities while reducing reliance on private vehicles. Direct and enhanced rail services are a critical part of that vision.

We also draw attention to the significant potential of the proposed Shropshire and Mid Wales Parkway, which enjoys strong regional support and offers the prospect of serving a wider catchment across rural Shropshire and Mid Wales. The parkway presents an opportunity not only to improve connectivity but also to support modal shift, economic development and inward investment. Any future review of direct London services should consider how the parkway could form part of a wider strategy to strengthen rail access across the region.

Shropshire Council is committed to working constructively with Government, Great British Railways, industry partners and neighbouring authorities to develop viable solutions. We are also working closely with the Mayor of the West Midlands, Richard Parker, recognising that improving connectivity between Shropshire, the West Midlands and London is essential to delivering growth across the wider regional economy.

The case for action is clear. Direct rail services to London would strengthen the economic prospects of Shropshire, support national housing and growth objectives, improve connectivity for rural communities and help realise the Government’s ambition of spreading prosperity beyond our major cities.

We therefore respectfully ask that you instruct officials within the Department for Transport and Great British Railways to examine all available options for restoring direct services between Shropshire and London and to engage with local partners on how this objective can be achieved. Following the second rejection of the WSMR proposal, we must ensure that every avenue is explored and that no stone is left unturned.

We would welcome the opportunity to discuss this matter with you further and to work together towards securing a direct rail connection that Shropshire residents, businesses and communities have sought for many years.

Shropshire Council and Stoke on Tern Parish Council have been made aware of proposals by Enfield Council to place families to whom it owes a housing duty at Dutton Close, Stoke Heath, through private rented housing arrangements. The properties concerned are currently available to rent or buy on the open market. 

The council has written to Enfield Council to formally record its significant concerns about these proposals and to make clear that, in its view, Dutton Close is not a suitable location for these placements. This letter can be read here: Confidential – Letter to Enfield Council

The site is poorly connected, with limited access to transport, services and other essential support. It also has no community facilities nearby. This would make it extremely difficult for individuals and families placed there to settle, access the help they may need and integrate into the wider community. 

While the council recognises that it has no legal grounds to prevent Enfield Council placing households at this site through private rented accommodation, it has expressed its clear view that this is not the right location and not the right time. 

It is therefore it is strongly urging Enfield Council not to proceed with any use of Dutton Close for this purpose. Before considering moving any families to the area, Enfield Council must satisfy itself that all concerns have been fully addressed and that any proposed accommodation is suitable, sustainable and properly supported. 

Battlefield Roundabout in Shrewsbury is be resurfaced overnight from Monday 26 October to Friday 13 November [2026]

Work will be carried out between 9pm and 6am each night, when road closures will be in place.

To minimise disruption, the work will be carried out in phases, as follows:

Week 1: 26–30 October

A49 Shrewsbury Road (highlighted in green on map) closed.

• A5124, A53 and Battlefield Road will remain open.

Week 2: 2–6 November

Battlefield Roundabout (highlighted in red) closed.

• A5124 and A49 Shrewsbury Road will remain open under two-way traffic signals.
• A53, A49 and Battlefield Road will be closed.

Week 3: 9–13 November

Battlefield Roundabout (highlighted in blue) closed.

• A5124 and Battlefield Road will be closed.
• A49, A53 and A49 Shrewsbury Road will remain open under three-way traffic signals.

During the closures a signed diversion route will be in place and site staff will guide vehicles safely into and out of the service area and businesses within the affected area.

Shropshire Council’s electronic message signs will also be used to provide advance notice of the closures and keep road users informed.

The work will involve resurfacing the carriageway with a new asphalt layer, applied using a paving machine and compacted to create a smooth, durable surface. Resurfacing is an important part of maintaining our roads, helping to improve their long term condition, prevent further deterioration, and reduce the need for reactive repairs such as pothole filling.

Shropshire Council recently celebrated the achievements of colleagues who have successfully completed their apprenticeship programmes at a special awards event held in the Council Chamber at the Guildhall in Shrewsbury.

The Apprenticeship Celebration Event 2026 recognised employees who have balanced their studies alongside delivering essential services for communities across Shropshire.

The event provided an opportunity to celebrate their commitment, resilience and determination, while reflecting on the positive impact apprenticeships have on both individual career development and the wider organisation.

Colleagues from a range of services were recognised for completing apprenticeship programmes that have helped them develop new skills, gain professional qualifications and progress in their careers.

Shropshire Council Chief Executive Tanya Miles said:

“Investing in our people and growing our own talent is vital to the council’s future.

Apprenticeships help colleagues build skills, progress in their careers and move into specialist roles, while helping us develop the skilled and resilient workforce we need to serve our communities.

I want to congratulate every apprentice on this fantastic achievement. Thank you also to the managers, mentors, colleagues, families and training providers whose encouragement, guidance and practical support have helped them succeed.”

Apprenticeships form an important part of the council’s commitment to developing a highly skilled workforce and creating opportunities for both new and existing employees to gain valuable knowledge and qualifications while working.

Congratulations to all apprentices who completed their programmes this year and to everyone who supported them throughout their learning journey.

To find out more about careers, apprenticeships and opportunities with Shropshire Council, visit Shropshire council’s careers webpage.

The October meeting of Cabinet will be asked to support a flexible approach that keeps options open while national reforms continue to take shape.

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

“The national devolution landscape continues to change and it is important that Shropshire remains part of the conversation.

“This is about making sure the county is in the strongest possible position to shape its own future, attract investment and secure opportunities for our communities, businesses and public services.

“We want to continue working constructively with government and our partners while ensuring any future arrangements recognise Shropshire’s unique strengths, challenges and identity.”

The report to Cabinet highlights Shropshire’s position as a largely rural county with strong economic links in several directions. These include connections through the M54 corridor to Telford and the West Midlands, as well as long-standing partnerships and economic relationships that stretch across the border into Wales through the Marches Forward Partnership.

Cabinet is being asked to support ongoing conversations with government and Telford and Wrekin Council while further work is done to build the strongest possible case for a satisfactory arrangement that supports growth, attracts investment and reflects Shropshire’s rural character and local identity.

A previous review of potential devolution models found there was no single solution that fully matched Shropshire’s geography, economy and public service connections.

The importance of existing partnerships is also recognised, particularly the Marches Forward Partnership, which brings together local authorities and organisations on both sides of the England-Wales border to drive economic growth and investment.

If the report is approved, it will allow further discussions with government, assessment of different governance models and the development of a stronger evidence base around Shropshire’s economy, infrastructure and strategic growth opportunities.

Public consultation would take place once any proposals are more fully developed.

The Cabinet meeting will be held at Guildhall, Shrewsbury, at 10.30am on October 14.

The A495 Oswestry Road in Ellesmere is to be resurfaced later this month from the Canal Way traffic lights to the business park roundabout. At the same time, work will be carried out to install a 20mph zone at both Ellesmere Primary School and Lakelands Academy.

Work will be carried out from Monday 26 October to Friday 6 November [2026], with work starting on the A495 first, then swapping to Elson Road when required.

Work will be carried out on weekdays only from 9.30am to 4pm (week 1) and from 9.30am to 2.45pm (week two).

During the work Oswestry Road and then Elson Road will be closed to traffic. Only one road closure will be in place at a time to minimise disruption.

Ellesmere Primary School  20mph scheme

A 20mph zone will be introduced along Trimpley Street and Elson Road (B5068). Work will include the construction of speed cushions, the provision and amendment of waiting restrictions including sections of Cambria Avenue, Stanham Drive and Brownlow Road, the formalisation of the ‘School Keep Clear’ markings, the upgrade of street lighting lanterns, and signing and road marking associated with the 20mph Zone.

Resurfacing work will be also be carried out on Elson Road.

Lakelands Academy 20mph scheme

Outside Lakelands Academy on the A495 Oswestry Road work will include the installation of speed cushions, formalisation of the ‘School Keep Clear’ markings, plus  signing and road marking associated with the 20mph Zone. This work is being coordinated with the resurfacing scheme.

Roads included in the 20mph schemes are:

Elson Road, Trimpley Street, Cambria Avenue, Beech Grove, Oak Drive, Beech Drive, David Philips Close, Brownlow Road, Stanham Drive, Oswestry Road and Scotland Street.

The Cambria Avenue housing estate lies between the two school locations and is incorporated into the 20mph Zone, requiring signing and road marking.

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.
• 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.

People are asked to ensure vehicles are not parked on the road whilst the work is in progress. This will help ensure that work is completed efficiently and reduce disruption.

For more information visit the One.Network website.

Mount Pleasant Road in Shrewsbury is to be resurfaced between Ditherington Road and the Steam Wagon roundabout from Monday 26 October to Friday 13 November [2026].

Work will be carried out on weekdays only.

In week one work will be carried out from 9.30am to 4pm each day. In weeks two and three work will be carried out from 9.30am to 2.45pm. 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.
• 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.

People are asked to ensure vehicles are not parked on the road whilst the work is in progress. This will help ensure that work is completed efficiently and reduce disruption.

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

For more information visit the One Network roadworks website.

Resurfacing is a key part of maintaining the county’s 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.

Abbey Foregate car park in Shrewsbury

A review of parking in Shropshire’s market towns will be considered by Shropshire Council’s Cabinet at its meeting next week (14 October 2026), which could see the return of Sunday buses in Shrewsbury for the first time in over a decade.

The review has looked at the impact parking has on residential areas, and alternatives to town centre parking, as well as balancing affordability with demand.

It also considers parking charges – and the times at which they apply – in towns across the county and proposes some changes to parking bands, charges and charging hours

Cabinet is being asked to approve a consultation into the proposed changes, which could see the introduction of a Sunday park and ride service in Shrewsbury.

This review aims to balance the income raised from parking charges with the objectives of Shropshire’s draft Local Transport Plan, which seeks to encourage sustainable travel choices and reduce congestion in town centres.

The proposed measures will provide additional revenue which will be directly reinvested into maintenance and improvements to the council’s transport services. By raising additional revenue from parking, the council is able to focus general council funds on protecting other essential services. This is all in the context of Shropshire Council’s wider financial position, and the Best Value Notice issued by the Ministry for Communities, Housing and Local Government.

The proposed changes are subject to public consultation, with all consultation responses being considered before any changes are implemented. No changes would be introduced before Christmas. On-street parking would remain free for blue badge holders.

Shrewsbury park and ride could operate on a Sunday under the proposals

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

“In short, this review takes a comprehensive and over-arching look at parking and traffic management across the county, protects low-cost parking options, and offers the chance to see buses operating in Shrewsbury on a Sunday for the first time in over a decade.

“The proposed measures will provide additional revenue which will be directly reinvested into maintenance and improvements to our transport services, and support local road improvements. They will help us to better manage demand for parking, promote turnover of spaces, and support the use of alternative modes of transport, such as Park & Ride.

“The transport funding that Shropshire Council is receiving from the Government is not keeping track with costs, so we must look to other sources to support stretched budgets. At the same time we need to look at ways to encourage people to use alternatives forms of travel, ways to reduce congestion, and ensure that parking charges in each of our market towns are fair and appropriate.

“Parking charges were last increased in November 2025, the first rise in three years. As we announced last week, the additional income raised following last year’s rise has enabled us to keep the Meole Brace park and ride service operating. We appreciate that in the main these changes impact Shrewsbury, but in terms of transport and facilities the town is better served than other market towns. In carrying out the review we’ve listened to the views of local businesses and residents and thank them for their comments.

“Increasing parking charges has enabled us to keep Meole Brace Park and Ride operating. The changes we’re proposing now would also enable us to provide a Sunday park and ride service, alongside the evening park and ride that is due to start on 1 November – something I’m confident will be welcomed by many.”

Cabinet will also be asked to approve an annual review of parking charges in Shropshire.

The changes align with the objectives of Shropshire’s emerging Local Transport Plan, which seeks to encourage sustainable travel choices and reduce congestion in town centres.

A consultation on Shropshire draft Local Transport Plan 2027-37 runs from 5 October to 16 November [2026].

Further information

1. The proposals are intended to:

• improve the availability and turnover of the most centrally located parking spaces;
• encourage longer-stay users to use less central and lower-cost parking;
• support greater use of public transport, Park and Ride, walking and cycling where practical alternatives are available;
• provide a clearer relationship between the location, demand and tariff applying to each parking place; and,
• support the council’s wider transport and parking objectives.

2. Shropshire Council’s car parks and parking areas currently sit within seven bands from band 1 (Shrewsbury on-street parking) to band 7 (free parking). Under the proposals:

• The operation hours of bands 1 to 4 car parks and parking areas are proposed to extend from 8am to 6pm, to 8am to 8pm.
• In band 2 the current half-rate tariff on Sundays and bank holidays would be removed and the full tariff would apply.
• In band 4 charging would be extended to Sundays and bank holidays when the half-rate tariff would apply.

3. The existing and proposed standard hourly tariffs are summarised below:

• Band 1: Current – £3.60; Proposed –  £4.80
• Band 2: Current – £2.80; Proposed – £3.80
• Band 2, Raven Meadows multi-storey car park: Current – £2.40; Proposed – £2.50
• Band 3: Current – £1.40; Proposed – £2.00
• Band 4: Current – £1.20; Proposed – £1.00
• Band 5: Current – 70p; Proposed – 70p
• Band 6: Current – 40p; Proposed – 40p
• Band 7: Current – free; Proposed – free

NB. Minimum purchase periods, maximum charges, charging days and hours vary between locations.

4. The following changes to the banding of individual car parks are proposed:

• Shirehall Overflow, Shrewsbury, would move from Band 5 to Band 6, reducing the hourly tariff from 70p to 40p.
• St Mary’s Lane, Much Wenlock, would move from Band 5 to Band 6, reducing the hourly tariff from £70p to 40p.
• Abbey Foregate, Shrewsbury would move from Band 5 to Band 4, increasing the hourly tariff from 70p to £1, bringing it in line with Frankwell Car Park, for which the tariff would reduce from £1.20 an hour to £1 an hour.

5. A benchmarking exercise has been undertaken to compare Shropshire Council’s parking tariff review arrangements with those of neighbouring and comparable local authorities. The review demonstrates that many authorities have either recently implemented parking charge increases or established regular review mechanisms following prolonged periods during which tariffs remained unchanged. In several cases, including Worcester, Cheshire West and Chester, Wiltshire and Devon, significant increases have been introduced to address the cumulative effects of inflation, rising operating costs and the need to maintain and invest in parking infrastructure. The benchmarking indicates that Shropshire Council’s recent parking tariff review is consistent with emerging practice across the sector.

The new 508 Ellesmere to Wem bus service started operating last month [September 2026].

Operated by Lakeside Coaches the new service runs between the two towns six days a week, via Welshampton and Wem railway station. It includes the Ellesmere town route.

To mark the start of the service, Helen Morgan, MP for North Shropshire, Rob Wilson (Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for transport), and Robert Jones (Shropshire Council’s deputy Cabinet member for transport) went to Wem to see one of the buses that is now operating between the two towns. See video.

The 508 bus takes the following routes:

508 Ellesmere Town route
Cross Street, Willow Street, Brownlow Road*, Elson Road, The Hawthorns*, Elson Road, Cherry Drive*, Elson Road, Cambria Avenue*, Beech Grove*, Scotland Street, Ellesmere Business Park Roundabout, Scotland Street, Canal Way, Tetchill Brook Road*, Windlass Drive*, Diamond Way*, Canal Way, Scotland Street, Cross Street

508 Ellesmere to Wem route
Cross Street, Spar Bridge, Talbot Street, Church Street, A495 Tunnel Bank, A495 Welshampton, turn in lay-by at Copes Lane A495, B5063 Northwood*, B5063 Wolverley*, B5063 Ellesmere Road*, Lowe Hill Road, Somerset Way*, Pyms Road, Whitchurch Road, Summerfield Road, Station Road, Aston Street, Co-Op Car Park. (Return in Ellesmere is via Church Street, Watergate Street, High Street and Cross Street).

Roads marked with a * are ‘Hail & Ride’.

For more information and a timetable, visit the Lakeside Coaches website.