Labour group sets out vision for Shrewsbury Town Council

Following the elections on May 2 the distribution of seats on the Council significantly changed. Labour now hold seven seats with the Liberal Democrats and Conservatives each having five.

The Labour Party Group has therefore taken the Chair and Vice-Chair roles on all committees.

Leader of the Labour Group and Chair of the Finance and General Purposes Committee, Alan Mosley, said: “We are delighted at being in this position and thank the people of Shrewsbury who have entrusted us with this role. As we gained just over 44 per cent of the vote, compared with 36 per cent and 17 per cent for the other major parties, there is a mandate to take the Council forward.”

Councillor Mosley said the party had identified a number of principles and priorities based around local community involvement, public service, value for money, continuous improvement and partnership working.

He confirmed there would be no rise in the Council Tax precept and no reduction in current services.

“Nor will we extend the outsourcing or privatisation of any services,” he added.

Councillor Mosley outlined the need for “a root and branch examination” of delivery designed to free up resources to improve the quality of existing, and extend the range of, services provided.

“We will review our assets and future plans to ensure that they are appropriate to our needs and working for residents and partners,” he said.

“On this basis, we believe that there should be no further expenditure in pursuit of acquiring the Rowleys House complex, although we will value and support any appropriate development plans which may arise.”

Councillor Mosley indicated the Town Council would be seeking to rapidly move forward on current plans to divert the Dana footpath, and for improved accessibility over the Smithfield Road footbridge.

Boosting tourism, improving facilities and activities for children and young people and supporting the Mayor’s initiative for economic development in the town have also been identified as key priorities.

“In addition, we will be looking to identify means of improving road safety in neighbourhoods and will review the proposals for hydro power at the Weir,” said Councillor Mosley.

A new Town Council website to improve communication with residents and partners is also planned.