The next stage of public consultation on the Smithfield Riverside regeneration project in Shrewsbury is to get underway today, 09 February, ahead of two impending planning applications.

Led by Shropshire Council and its development manager, RivingtonHark, Smithfield Riverside is the ambitious regeneration project set to transform the area between the River Severn, The Darwin shopping centre, Roushill and Raven Meadows in Shrewsbury town centre.

The first of four planning applications was submitted in December 2023. With a planning decision expected this spring, the application focussed on the demolition of the Riverside shopping centre and former Riverside medical practice, and the creation of a landmark new public park adjacent to Roushill. Backed by almost £19 million of Levelling Up Fund money from the Government, this work would pave the way for key enabling works and, through the introduction of the park, help breathe new life and vibrancy into the area.

The feedback from the council's first round of consultation helped fine tune the proposals for Roushill Park, including making the family play sculptures more robust and natural in appearance, so they can withstand the area’s regular flooding while still looking attractive. Feedback also influenced an increase in rain gardens, to ensure that the park can play a meaningful role in sustainable drainage and flood management.

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The next round of public consultation, which runs until Tuesday 5 March 2024, will focus on proposals that are being submitted this spring as planning applications two and three.

The second planning application introduces ‘outline’ scale and massing plans for three building plots located between Smithfield Road, Raven Meadows and the proposed Roushill Park. Although plans are still at an early stage, these flexible plots are likely to feature a mix of residential, office and hotel uses.

The third planning application proposes a new social destination located between Pride Hill and Raven Meadows, forming a welcoming and inclusive new space to eat, meet and socialise. The existing, closed Pride Hill shopping centre would be partly demolished – with the retention of the existing service yard platform and a smaller covered retail arcade that connects to Pride Hill and High Street beyond.

Adjoining new buildings and a raised podium would be constructed to accommodate a boutique cinema, retail pavilion, bars and restaurants, and an outdoor event space for local makers and small businesses. As a nod to the town’s ever-evolving industrial heritage and typical housing stock, new buildings would combine a multitude of pitched roofs and utilise raw and earthy colours.

The second phase of public consultation on Smithfield Riverside will run until Tuesday 5 March 2024, with local businesses and communities invited to view and comment on the plans.

Public events are also planned at Shropshire Local in The Darwin shopping centre on Thursday 15 February, Saturday 17 February and Wednesday 21 February, giving people the opportunity to learn more, meet the team and view a 3D model of the plans.