The Council is pushing ahead with plans to fence off a large part of open community space (Teece Drive, Priorslee) as part of the expansion of Holy Trinity Academy. The planning application (TWC/2021/0871) if successful, will see the loss of much needed community green space.
The fields that comprise this community space are in the heart of Priorslee. Priorslee has become an area of extensive building of new homes. This community green space enhances the quality of life of local people, who walk their dogs, bring their children, play games and get much needed opportunity to enhance their health and wellbeing.
You can read more about the full application, which is currently subject to consultation, here.
Lucy Allan MP said:
“It is hugely disappointing that Telford & Wrekin Council have not listened to local people on the important issue of community green space. Fencing off this precious open space denies access to a much valued amenity. I would urge the Council to think carefully before taking this further, and to recognise the value of green space to residents, particularly in an area of high-density housing and mass building of new homes. Our Council says it wants to be cleaner and greener. It is time to show that that this is a genuine commitment, and not just an empty slogan.
I asked for a meeting with both the school and the Council to discuss residents’ concerns and seek solutions. My request was refused. Failing to engage with the community on this issue demonstrates disrespect for local people and their representatives."
Local resident, Paul Thomas, said:
“Rather than antagonise the community, the Council should work together with us in partnership to find a solution that is acceptable to all parties. So far neither the Council or the school has made any effort to engage with the community.
Furthermore, the Council has recently submitted an amended planning application to create a 5-a-side football pitch on the remaining space adjacent to the field, reducing the community green space even further. It seems the Council does not understand what residents want and is not even trying to do so.”
