A public toilet facility that was forced to close more than a year ago due to anti-social behaviour is set to be given a new lease of life, thanks to Shrewsbury Town Council.
At an extra-ordinary meeting of the council on May 9 members approved a final scheme for the redevelopment of the Butcher Row toilet facility.
The toilets have been closed since February 2010.
Plans will now be submitted to the planning authority, Shropshire Council, and if approved will see the site transformed into a multi-use area incorporating modern toilets, disabled rest facilities, a Town Council information point and a multi-functional auditorium space which can be used for outside events and as an indoor meeting space.
The proposals have been carefully designed so ensure the site will harmonise with the existing architecture in the area, which includes Grade I and II listed buildings, while also maintaining its own quality as a modern day building.
Councillor Peter Nutting, Leader of the Council said: “I welcome this modern scheme. This is a wonderful opportunity for the town to use a fabulous area of Shrewsbury. The design allows this small space great flexibility for us from organised cultural activities, through to allowing the public to just sit and dwell. The facility will also complement existing areas such as the Square and the soon-to-be-completed Music Hall.”
Councillor Tony Durnell, Deputy Mayor, said the facility would be a great asset to the town, especially during busy events periods. “I see this as being a facility that will be exceptionally useful, particularly during the town’s busy festivals programme,” he said. “This new site will allow these events to extend around the town, even in inclement weather.”
Details of the plans can be found on the Town Council website at www.shrewsburytowncouncil.gov.uk
For further information contact Suzi Wilkinson, Marketing & Promotions Officer on: 01743 257654 or email suzi.wilkinson-stc@shropshire.gov.uk