12-month trial for new drop-off and pick-up points in the centre will complement free coach parking at either end of Shropshire’s county town
A move to create new coach drop-off points for Shrewsbury’s town centre has been given the green light and is being hailed as a great initiative for business and visitors.
These drop-off points mean coach drivers will be able to set-down visitors in bays at Dogpole (SY1 1HF) and Shoplatch (SY1 1EB) – close to Shrewsbury’s shops, Museum and Art Gallery, before parking free of charge in the long stay areas at Frankwell (SY3 8HQ) and Abbey Foregate (SY2 6AH).
The idea by Shrewsbury Business Improvement District (BID) and Shropshire Council is initially to introduce the scheme on an informal basis with a 12-month trial period. If well-received by local business and coach operators, it will be implemented permanently after this time.
Dilwyn Jones, owner of Sabrina river boat cruises and a BID board director, said the new bays would make it easier for tourists to visit the town.
He said: “This great initiative shows we are truly open for business and ready for the busy visitor season.
The BID’s partnership approach is all about taking action to identify and solve issues for the good of the town.”
Louise Cross, Shropshire Council’s Visitor Economy Manager, said the move is an important measure to help the town’s tourist economy.
She said: “Tourism is important to our local economy and we want to show coach companies and group travel organisers they are very welcome in Shrewsbury and that we value their support. These drop off points will make life easier for our visitors and also help reduce congestion.”
Coach drivers will be allowed to wait at a designated long stay parking area until they are ready to return to the Dogpole and Shoplatch pick-up point to collect their passengers.
Welcoming the news, Phil Bateman, Regional Manager for CPT in the West Midlands told CBW: “This followed a lot of hard work together with Shrewsbury Tourist Association. Shrewsbury is a great town with loads of interesting sites and activities taking place. Linking up coach companies with the town is a pleasure in itself.”
INFO
For more details, visit www.shrewsburyforgroups.com/parking.php.
