Shropshire Council plans for Yardley, Brownhill

As some of you may be aware, the property known as Yardley (on Brownhill) was purchased by Shropshire Council at the end of March 2020. Residents have been in touch with the Parish Council to share their concerns about Shropshire Council’s plans to use the property as a children’s home.  Since becoming aware of the purchase of Yardley, the Parish Council has discussed this matter in council meetings from April 2020 onwards. We encourage all interested parties to read through the relevant sections in the council minutes and appendices, where you will find background information on Yardley, as well as any Parish Council decisions on this matter. A planning application has now been submitted for a Change of use from a Class 3 dwelling to a Class 2 children’s home.

The Parish Council submitted a formal complaint to Shropshire Council regarding the lack of communication with the parish council and community on this matter, and a Freedom of Information request has been submitted by the Vice chairman. We are now in direct communication with Children’s Services regarding their intentions for Yardley. In addition to this, Shropshire Councillor for Ruyton and Baschurch, Cllr Nick Bardsley, has set up a liaison group which will include the Chairman and Vice chairman of the Parish Council, officers from Children’s Services, the Portfolio Holder for Children’s Services (Cllr Ed Potter) and Cllr Bardsley as the local elected member. The first liaison group meeting is expected to take place on Thurs 28th May. We will continue to share updates at Council meetings, in the minutes and on this website as appropriate.