Work gets underway to clear rubble from Smithfield Riverside site

The clearing of the site marks another important step forward in the transformation of the area between the River Severn, The Darwin Centre and Roushill – paving the way for the scheme’s flagship new public park.

Starting from today, residents and businesses in the town centre will notice increased activity and lorry movements as the site is cleared of rubble and prepared for the construction of the new park alongside Roushill. This first phase of the Smithfield Riverside redevelopment is being funded by £18.7 million secured from the UK Government.

Shropshire Coucnil says the lorry movements will occur within the approved operating times of 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday.

To ensure the safety of the surrounding area, Cawarden will also implement measures such as water spraying to control dust levels, monitoring noise, and ensuring lorry tyres are free from mud before leaving the site. The increased activity is expected to last for up to eight weeks.

The crushed aggregate from the demolition will be reused within the project or other development sites, as one of several sustainability measures implemented by Shropshire Council.

Ian Nellins, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet lead for Shrewsbury town centre’s regeneration, said:

“We are thrilled to see the Smithfield Riverside project moving forward. The completion of the archaeological work and the commencement of site clearance are significant milestones. This project will not only enhance the area but also provide a beautiful, accessible, and sustainable park for the community to enjoy.”

Nat Green, Shropshire Councillor for Quarry and Coton Hill, added:

“Residents will be pleased that the contractor will be aiming to minimise disruption.”

For those interested in viewing the demolition from a different perspective, Shropshire Council’s webcam on the roof of The Darwin Centre has created a time-lapse of the demolition works, available at smithfieldriverside.com.