Shropshire development receives special commendation at prestigious planning awards

Allscott Meads, the new community being developed by SJ Roberts Construction and SJ Roberts Homes, on the site of the former sugar beet factory between Shrewsbury and Telford, has received a ‘special commendation’ in the ‘Best Project’ category at The West Midlands Awards for Planning Excellence which were organised by the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI). The commendation is shared with Telford & Wrekin Council’s planning department which managed the entry.

The entry focused on how the team at SJ Roberts Homes collaborated closely with the Telford & Wrekin Council team at all stages of the application process and beyond. Extensive pre-application discussions were followed by positive and active engagement with planning officers, and the local community was actively involved at all stages.

The entry additionally detailed the uniqueness of the semi-rural, brownfield, location and the ways in which the new development sought to create a genuine community that brought together old and new residents.

Commenting after the awards ceremony, Matthew Roberts of SJ Roberts said:

“It was vital when taking on a project like Allscott Meads that we did so mindful of the heritage of the site, the existing local community, and its semi-rural location. Significant consideration was paid to the design and layout of the site, and we always remained focused on the need to create a community that felt organic rather than simply created.

“Fostering a strong and collaborative relationship with the planning team was vital in this respect and the fact that they chose to enter this development above others that they’ve worked with developers on in the borough is a point of significant pride for the team at SJ Roberts. “Receiving this special commendation adds to the successes we’ve enjoyed at Allscott Meads, and we’re delighted to share this accolade with Telford & Wrekin Council.”