Shrewsbury Big Town Plan

Shrewsbury already has a high quality public realm, but most people in Shrewsbury understand that it could easily be much better still. Furthermore, they know this is the key to making a town centre with commercial vitality, social inclusivity and cultural interest. Footfall is the barometer of success. If people want to spend time in the town centre, then the town centre will draw investment.

Transformation of public realm quality starts with a rebalance away from vehicle use and towards pedestrians and cyclists. The quality of town centre streets and spaces can be lifted from traditional highway dominated streetscape towards matching the quality of the richly historical architectural fabric. Perhaps the defining characteristic of Shrewsbury’s townscape is the river itself. These proposals reinvent Shrewsbury’s relationship with the Severn in making new crossings, drawing the public realm to the water and celebrating riverside spaces.

Client

Shropshire Council / Shrewsbury BID

Date

2019 - 2022

Team

Glenn Howells Architects / Stantec, transportation