Work is beginning this week to improve Abbey Foregate, one of Shrewsbury's most historically significant streets. The scheme includes two new parklets with public seating and planters, a speed limit reduction, and additional parking spaces.

Two parklets will be installed in an unused taxi rank on Abbey Foregate near the 11th Century church. The parklets are semi-permanent public spaces designed for people to rest and relax, with fencing on the carriageway side and paintwork reflecting the local character of the Abbey area.

Speed Limit Reduction Across Multiple Streets

The speed limit is being lowered to 20 mph on Abbey Foregate, Horsefair, Railway Lane, Railway Terrace and Portobello.

Public Consultation Shaped Plans

The improvements follow a consultation last year in which 400 residents and business owners shared their experience of the area. More than two thirds of respondents wanted more seating, and 62% wanted more greenery.

Emma Molyneux, who is leading the project at Shrewsbury BID, said: "Abbey Foregate is one of the most historically significant streets in Shrewsbury, and it deserves better than to be a place people just pass through. Nearly 400 people took the time to tell us what they wanted to see in the area, and it was clear from the start that seating and greenery were the priorities - so it's great that these are arriving first."

Further Improvements Planned

Additional seating is planned for the street outside The Crown pub, with installation expected next spring. A pocket park is being built at the top of Abbey Foregate and should be completed by the end of September.

The land for the pocket park is owned by local businessman Martin Monahan, who is giving use of the land free of charge. He said: "The aim of all of this is simple: to make this wonderful historic part of Shrewsbury a greener, more attractive and welcoming place where people actually want to stop, sit, meet and spend time."

Funding and Partnership

The improvements are being funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, government money given to councils to spend on projects that boost community pride and support neighbourhood infrastructure. The work is being managed by Shrewsbury Big Town Plan, a partnership between Shrewsbury BID, Shropshire Council and Shrewsbury Town Council.