Wem Town Council has deferred discussions regarding the train station to next month's full council after it was confirmed a meeting about improvements is scheduled.

A resident, Jon Bielstein, wrote to the council thanking them for raising concerns of the lack of ticket machine on both platforms, as well as there not being a bridge for commuters to cross when the barriers are down.

In further communication, Mr Bielstein acknowledged the town council's previous efforts but raised the hope that with the change of franchise from Arriva Trains to Transport for Wales Rail Services (TfWRS).

Mr Bielstein added further that he will meet with Steve Whitley, who is Borders Business Unit manager at TfWRS, on December 4.

At the full town council last week, Councillor Chris Mellings – who is also a Shropshire member – confirmed he would attend the meeting at Wem station.

The item will be now placed on December's agenda to provided feedback from the station meeting.

Meanwhile, councillors agreed to further investigate provide greater heating in the groundsman's shed for the winter months.

Town clerk Penny O'Hagan said: "From an employer’s point of view and a duty of care, this has to be considered.

"Currently, he has an oil heater. There’s a quote of £3,500 but Wem Sport and Social Association would like to fund a third.

"But I have asked for another quote as well. It’s for when the groundsman is working in the shed."

The council is also seeking advice on an electrical heater and it will be deferred until next month.

Members also passed a recommendation from the staffing review working party, chaired by former mayor Cllr Rosemary Dodd, to appoint a part-time member of staff to support the clerk.

The role will be 10 hours a week on the same salary point as the assistant clerk and Cllr Edward Towers believes it's a good move.

He added: "As Wem gets busier, bringing in that extra member of staff will mean the office is staffed."

Councillors also objected to a planning application for a single storey extension and a new double garage on the grounds of not being happy with the garage's siting.