Shifnal Town Centre improvement scheme

A key challenge was maintaining heavy commuter traffic flows through Shifnal town centre using temporary traffic management on the existing narrow road network with added pressure of maintaining pedestrian routes and access to businesses.

The scheme was subject to public consultation and public meetings, leading to some work elements being redesigned during the contract before approval by Shropshire Council, Shifnal Town Council and local councillors. Approval was required from the Department for Transport for permission to remove vehicular access in certain areas.

The project had to factor in impact of reinstating old cellars and replacing an old, damaged culvert discovered on site.

Works inevitably caused noise disturbances requiring careful management, whilst dust suppression measures were needed when cutting paving slabs and materials.

The team needed to accommodate Shifnal’s annual carnival, minimise disruption during the Cosford Air Show weekend, and ensure completion for the 2022 Christmas light switch-on and Christmas market events.

McPhillips produced a traffic management strategy aimed at keeping disruption to the public to an absolute minimum.

Close contact and meetings with Shifnal Town Council, Shropshire Council and Shropshire County Council highways permitting team kept everyone informed about different project phases and impact on the general public including road closures and diversions.

The site team successfully completed the agreed works by coordinating working times with local shops, performing disruptive tasks like planning, road surfacing, and high-friction works at night, and maintaining close communication with all stakeholders.

Pedestrian and traffic marshals were used throughout.

Work areas were clearly defined and barriered off, pedestrian crossing points and walkways were kept clear and accessible, with every effort made to ensure businesses could continue trading.

Continual liaison with businesses and the general public ensured the scheme was delivered with minimal complaints.

Shifnal’s annual carnival went ahead unhindered, disruption during the Cosford Air Show weekend was kept to minimum, and all main contract works were completed in time for the 2022 Shifnal Christmas light switch-on and Christmas market.

The site agent was awarded a Certificate of Appreciation by Shifnal Town Council recognising his “dedicated support for the community” in encouraging buy-in and ensuring smooth project delivery.

The improvements successfully created enhanced infrastructure supporting local businesses and community events whilst achieving the objective of creating a more pedestrian-friendly environment.