Strong views stirred by plans for extra 460 homes

Plans to add another 460 homes to a housing estate in Shropshire have divided opinions among people reacting to the plans on social media.

The new Weir Hill development is expected to see a total of more than 1,000 homes built, if permission is granted.

A planning application is due to be submitted to Shropshire Council for the development following a public consultation.

Some of those posting on Facebook criticised the lack of amenities, such as schools and doctors, in the plans, while others welcomed the prospect of extra homes.

The development, just north of Picton Drive and Keevil Close on the edge of Shrewsbury, is the next stage of an overall development by Taylor Wimpey and Persimmon Homes.

The plans also include parks, play areas, allotments and walking and cycling routes.

Taylor Wimpey said it wanted the homes to look like "a natural extension of Shrewsbury" with a mix of properties.

Some on Facebook said it was important to consider local services such as doctors, schools and shops, to cater for the large number of new residents.

Others called for affordable options and said they thought the houses would be out of the price range of many buyers in the area.

There were also comments about more cars being on the town's road network.

Commenting on Facebook, Steph Birch said: "This area has historically grown gradually, with about 100 homes added per decade.

"Trying to squeeze in more than 1,000 homes in under eight years is unsustainable and completely out of step with the infrastructure and amenities in place."

Some viewed the plans more favourably, however.

"Good news," said Bob Rayner, adding: "There's a serious housing shortage."

David Walker added: "If you accept there's a housing problem in this country, how can you argue it's wrong to build more houses?"

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