Shropshire Council vows action as Bridgnorth’s New Market Hall named among UK’s most endangered

Shropshire Council has welcomed the inclusion of the Grade II listed New Market building in Bridgnorth on the Victorian Society’s "Top Ten Endangered Buildings" list for 2026, signalling a potential turning point for the long-neglected landmark.

The announcement has thrust the polychromatic Italianate structure into the national spotlight, a move local officials hope will provide the necessary leverage to break a years-long deadlock with its private owner.

A Landmark in Peril

Built between 1855 and 1859, the New Market Hall was once the crown jewel of Bridgnorth’s High Street—a "civic hub" designed to house markets, assembly rooms, and a town hall. While similar structures in Shrewsbury and Ludlow were demolished decades ago, Bridgnorth’s hall remains, though its current state is described by heritage experts as "perilous."

Despite its architectural significance, the building has been plagued by a history of occupancy struggles and, more recently, severe neglect. The Victorian Society notes that while the ground floor is partially used, the upper levels are vacant and rotting.

Council to Pursue "Statutory Powers"

In a statement released this week, Shropshire Council expressed frustration with the building's absentee owner, citing a "demonstrated record" of failing to maintain the site.

The council was forced to intervene in 2018 at significant public expense to perform emergency safety works. Further emergency scaffolding was erected in 2022, which remains a financial burden on local taxpayers.

"Whilst remaining very mindful of the need to limit any further public expenditure, Shropshire Council is therefore once again having to actively consider using its discretionary statutory powers to pursue enforcement action," a council spokesperson said.

The authority confirmed it is now working with Historic England, local councillors, and community stakeholders to find a permanent resolution, which could include formal enforcement notices or, as some community groups have suggested, compulsory purchase.

National Figures Weigh In

The campaign to save the hall has gained heavyweight support. Griff Rhys Jones, President of the Victorian Society, slammed the waste of such a central asset.

"They are building huge enclosed shopping centres which threaten the high street and here is a purpose-made building on the high street standing by and perfect for small shops, cafes, and a new life," Jones said. "This is the centre of town. Stand by and make something of it."

James Hughes, Director of the Victorian Society, echoed the sentiment, calling for "decisive action" before the damage becomes irreversible.

The Victorian Society is urging the owner to either present a viable redevelopment plan or put the building on the market to allow a "new custodian" to take over.

For the residents of Bridgnorth, the hope is that this national recognition will finally force a move from scaffolding and "safety checks" to a full restoration of the town’s most striking Victorian landmark.