Empty shops and underused buildings in Bishop's Castle will be brought back to life this September as part of a new initiative designed to boost the town centre and attract visitors.
The four-day Bishop's Castle Is Open event will run from September 3 to 6, coinciding with the town's annual Michaelmas Fair.
Vacant properties will be transformed into pop-up shops, exhibitions, workshops, and creative spaces, giving artists, makers, and businesses a chance to showcase their work while encouraging more people into the town.
The idea was developed by Castle Hotel owner Bex Hunter and Poetry Pharmacy founder Deb Alma, who were concerned by the growing number of empty properties in the town.
Inspired by the concept of "meanwhile spaces," they worked with Shropshire Growth Hub, which has previously run successful pop-up retail projects in Shrewsbury.
Among the attractions planned is a pop-up store from cosmetics retailer Lush.
Ms Hunter said the response from artists, makers, and property owners had been "brilliant" and said the project was already demonstrating how empty buildings could support creative enterprise and strengthen the high street.
Shropshire Council deputy leader Alex Wagner said the scheme showed how "creativity, collaboration and local ambition" could help tackle challenges facing town centres.
Councillor Ruth Houghton said the project would help support local businesses, attract visitors and bring new energy to Bishop's Castle.
Organisers hope the pilot will demonstrate how vacant buildings can be used to revitalise market towns and inspire similar projects elsewhere in Shropshire.
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