Wem TOWN COUNCIL are set to write to Sajid Javid MP, the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, about the development of land off Roden Grove.

The call was made by councillors at the full meeting last Thursday regarding the 25-dwelling development which has been given permission by Shropshire Council, despite objections from Wem and residents around Roden Grove who fear flooding.

Councillor Chris Mellings, who sits on both Wem and Shropshire Councils, told the meeting that he has requested the north Shropshire planning committee reviews the reserved matters and that Wem continue to oppose the development.

He said: "This has been an issue since day one. We had strong oppositions to it, but it was approved in 2015.

"It didn’t go to committee with a three-year timeline to affect the application. Residents been working hard on issues with the site as they principally believe it’s the wrong site. Sadly, someone has taken on the site.

"There are more comments on the planning portal this time than last time and the arguments have been previously well made and could have effect on important issues, such as flooding.

"There are a number of issues surrounding it. I’ve worked with residents and haven’t seen anything to change my mind in saying it’s the wrong site for this development.

"I’ve completed a call in request for it to go to committee but I haven’t received confirmation yet. I move to propose that we object strongly against this."

Councillors agreed and it was proposed by another Shropshire councillor, Pauline Dee, to write to Mr Javid, as well as Shropshire Council, in a bid to have the development overturned.

Cllr Dee also told the meeting she had been informed by the developer's legal department, Fletcher Homes, there was nothing to be done now the site had been given permission. Cllr Phil Moyse added he was annoyed that people may be buying a house unaware of the problems.