Council set to buy former New College site
Telford & Wrekin Council is set to proceed with the purchase of the former New College site with the aim of regenerating College ward.
A report to the council’s Cabinet – which meets on March 14 – says the site will be subject to a masterplan which could include a mix of uses such as new housing, supported accommodation, offices and small businesses.
The plans will also consider the potential for a campus style development including special school provision.
An allocation of £200,000 from the council’s revenue contingency to fund will be used to undertake a detailed masterplan, achieve planning approval and carry out further survey work.
A further report will be brought back to Cabinet setting out detailed proposals which will be developed with the involvement of the local community.
Councillor Davies said: “The former New College site is a large and important site where there is the potential to make a significant contribution through a mixed use development to support the regeneration of College ward.
“Were the site to be sold by Telford College to another party, there is a risk that a development that does not consider the context of the local area could come forward – ultimately risking a detrimental impact on the local community.
“College Ward is ranked within the 10 per cent most deprived nationally, particularly in relation to employment, education, skills and training and we are committed to delivering a scheme that supports the needs of this community.
“I have therefore taken the decision to use my Strong Leader powers to enable the final negotiation of the site acquisition by the council.”
