Planned closure of Greyfriars Bridge sparks concern from residents and businesses

A planned closure of Greyfriars Bridge for refurbishment work from June 2nd to August 5th has caused significant concern among Shrewsbury residents and businesses, who cite short notice and a lack of consultation from Shropshire Council.

The bridge is scheduled to close for just over two months to allow for repair work. While a diversion route will be in place during this period, the announcement, made public via a social media post by Shropshire Council, has been met with a strong negative reaction.

Many people have expressed frustration online, highlighting the bridge as a crucial route for daily commutes, including travel to work and school.

Businesses in the Belle Vue and Coleham areas, in particular, are worried about the potential impact on footfall and custom during what is typically a busier time of year.

Claire Russell, Co-owner of Gelatistry in St Julian’s Friars, said of the closure, “As a small independent business we are shocked that the council is looking to close the main pedestrian access into town during the busiest time of year for our seasonal business. June through August are crucial for us to survive and we really worry about the impact of reduced footfall.”

Sam Jewell, owner of Coleham businesses House Coffee and The Allotment, said he is very concerned about the planned closure. “As a small, independent business, easy access to our coffee shop is crucial - especially in the warmer months when footfall and tourism are at their peak. The bridge closure will significantly impact our visibility and reduce customer access into Coleham & surrounding areas, during what is typically a busy time of the year for us.

“We fully understand the need for infrastructure maintenance, but we urge the local authorities to consider the serious knock-on effects on local businesses like ours,” he added. “We hope this will be considered and measures will be put in place to support and promote affected businesses during this period."

Shrewsbury BID has also expressed alarm over the plans, which it understands are for painting works rather than urgent repairs.

Seb Slater, Executive Director of Shrewsbury BID said: “Greyfriars bridge is a vital and busy pedestrian link into the town centre. Closing it for two months during the busy summer months would clearly have a very damaging impact on businesses close to the bridge but would also significantly reduce visits into the town centre, effecting both daytime and evening economies.

"We have been in touch with Shropshire Council to share our concerns and have made a number of suggestions regarding timings and alternative options."

Adding to the concern, the closure coincides with the Belle Vue Arts Festival, an important local event with activities spanning both sides of the bridge. Organisers and participants fear the disruption could negatively affect attendance and the overall success of the festival.

Local businesses are now calling on Shropshire Council to reconsider the timing and duration of the work. They are seeking clarity on why the closure needs to be so lengthy and whether there is any possibility of maintaining partial access, rather than a full closure, to mitigate the impact on the community and local economy.

Councillors and business representatives alike state they were not consulted prior to the public announcement, learning of the significant disruption on Friday. This perceived failure to engage with those most affected has become a central point of contention, exacerbating the frustration surrounding the closure itself.

As the closure date approaches, residents and businesses are hoping for further communication and flexibility from Shropshire Council to address their concerns and minimise the expected negative consequences on daily life and the local economy.