Traffic concerns over new homes plan at Craven Arms

A consultation event was held at Craven Arms Community Centre on February 16 so residents could learn more about a 103-home scheme that has been planned on a 4.5-hectare piece of land to the west of Watling Street.

Joint applicants SH Partnerships and Craven Arms Developments say they will take into consideration feedback before submitting a full application.

Resident Evie Price said that, although she understands the need for more housing, she is concerned about the potential for additional traffic in Clun Road.

“Watling Street is already busy and is a single-track road,” she said.

“They are saying that the attenuation pond will capture the surface water, but will be diverted to the sewage works. But Severn Trent were planning on putting in a pipe from the River Onny, so I’m a bit confused.”

Rizvan Khalid, who lives on Clun Road, is supportive of the plans.

“The town needs more affordable housing,” he said.

“It caters for kids and families with four-bed homes. I think it’s a good thing.”

Ed Taylor, director of land promoter CB Collier, said discussions have taken place with Shropshire Council, Craven Arms Town Council and Sibton Carwood Parish Council.

“We realise it’s a big development for Craven Arms, but Craven Arms needs housing,” said Mr Taylor.

“Hopefully we can show we can provide solutions for some of the constraints.”

Councillor Josh Dickin, who represents Craven Arms, said there are flooding issues in the town.

“There are potential plans to address the issue, but there’s already existing issues,” he said.

“Speed is another issue on Clun Road, which needs to be addressed before more things happen. Growth in Shropshire needs to happen, but it needs to be steady.

“Craven Arms has a lot of potential and generations to come need places to live. But how affordable is ‘affordable’? A lot of people’s affordability is different. ”