Opinions split over new plans for Ludlow M&S

Marks and Spencer withdrew a previous application for the scheme after criticism from residents of its design

Plans for a new Marks and Spencer supermarket in Ludlow have split opinion among town councillors.

A previous application for the scheme off Sheet Road was withdrawn earlier this year after criticism from residents of its design.

The company has since brought forward new plans, which it said addressed people’s concerns.

Lynn Scott, head of town planning at planning agent Berrys said: “We’ve taken on the feedback about the original store design and we pretty much realised that was not acceptable for Ludlow and we want to do something different.”

'Not needed'

Paul Turner, representing architects Corstorphine & Wright, said the look of the building had been “pulled back” from the original concept, with darker materials and a broken roofline to minimise its impact on views of the area.

Nevertheless, some raised questions about the need for the store, given the presence of several large supermarkets in the town, and its possible impact on independent retailers.

“I don’t care what it looks like, we don’t need it,” said councillor Robin Pote at a meeting of the town council on Monday.

Others were more enthusiastic, however.

“I do like this new design, it’s a lot better,” said councillor Viv Parry.

“It looks like it’s part of the landscape instead of sticking out like a sore thumb like it was before.”

The application will be decided by Shropshire Council in the new year.

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service which covers councils and other public service organisations.