Town 'open for business' amid urgent work

There are concerns that a retaining wall on Coton Hill could collapse

Shropshire Council has reassured residents and businesses that its county town is "open for business", as urgent works are planned after a collision.

The work, on Coton Hill, Shrewsbury, follows a vehicle hitting a retaining wall between four properties.

There are concerns the wall could collapse into the road.

"We want to remind everyone that Shrewsbury is still open for business and there are plenty of ways to access the town centre," said Cllr Dan Morris.

"We apologise for any inconvenience and disruption that these urgent works may cause, but they are essential to ensure the safety of the public and the stability of the wall," he said.

"We are working closely with the contractor to minimise the impact of the works and we appreciate the patience and cooperation of road users and residents."

Temporary traffic lights will be in place from Monday 12 August to Friday 16 August.

Shropshire Council said permanent lights at the Coton Hill and Berwick Road junction would be switched off for the duration of the works.

It added that there would be traffic management staff on site between 07:00 and 19:00 BST, to ease traffic delays, by changing the timings on the temporary lights.

Traffic on the same road, as well as near to Shrewsbury railway station, was already experiencing delays due to other works to improve the area.

In response, the authority said the timing of temporary lights near the station would be reviewed.

It advised the public to use alternative travel such as park & ride, walking or cycling into Shrewsbury, or use alternative routes if crossing the town.