Shropshire Council has formally responded to the Government’s request for views on the development of a Spatial Development Strategy (SDS), which sets out how it will work with neighbouring councils to deliver future homes, jobs and infrastructure.
In its response, Shropshire Council makes clear that its growth and economic future is closely linked to Telford and Wrekin and the wider West Midlands, particularly along the M54 corridor.
The council says this corridor supports thousands of jobs, major employment sites and important supply chains, and needs to be planned in a joined‑up way to unlock future investment.
Councillor Heather Kidd, Leader of Shropshire Council, said:-
“The M54 corridor is essential to Shropshire’s future growth and prosperity. Working at a strategic level helps us plan properly, attract investment and make sure Shropshire’s priorities are clearly understood and built into national decision‑making.”
The SDS is about long‑term strategic planning across council boundaries. It looks at where growth should take place, how areas are connected and how investment in things such as transport, housing, the environment and jobs can best be co-ordinated.
It does not change council boundaries or local decision‑making, and it is not a merger of councils.
The response proposes that Shropshire works initially with Telford and Wrekin Council on an SDS, with a pathway to working alongside the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) in the future, allowing planning for housing, transport, skills, energy and the environment to be strategically aligned, while Shropshire continues to make decisions for Shropshire.
It also highlights the county’s strengths within a wider partnership, including land for development, nationally significant defence and agri‑food assets, renewable energy potential, a strong rural economy and well‑established cross‑border working with Wales through the Marches Forward Partnership.
Heather added:-
“By setting out a clear and constructive position we are ensuring Shropshire plays a full role in shaping future growth so that rural areas benefit alongside our towns and cities.”
The Government will consider responses from councils across the country as it develops a national approach to Spatial Development Strategies, with full coverage expected by 2029.
