Public invited to shape town centre's future

Residents are being invited to help shape new redevelopment plans for a key town centre site in Stourport-on-Severn.

Wyre Forest District Council launched a public consultation on proposals for 8 Bridge Street, a plot most recently used as a temporary car park. The authority said the site had long been seen as an opportunity to better connect the town centre with its historic canal basin.

The council is working with local architects One Creative Environments to explore what it described as realistic options that reflect current economic and market conditions.

Councillor Dan Morehead said: "We're delighted to be able to share new ideas for this important site in the heart of the town centre."

"We'd really encourage people to come along, see the plans for themselves, and talk to the team who are helping to bring this vision to life."

He said that thoughtful redevelopment at Bridge Street would support wider regeneration and enhance Stourport's character.

The aim, he added, was to create "an attractive and welcoming place that draws people in, supports local businesses, and helps deliver the long term aspirations for Stourport-on-Severn".

The future of the site has been debated for years.

In 2005 the council adopted the Bridge Street Basins Link Development Brief, setting out a vision for the wider area, but attempts to secure a development partner stalled because of viability concerns.

The land was listed as an Asset of Community Value in December 2024 after a nomination by Stourport Civic Society, although no bids were received within the required period. The previous planning document was formally withdrawn in 2025 as it no longer reflected current conditions.

The public consultation will take place at The Civic Hall in Martins Way on 28 February between 10:00 and 13:00 GMT. People can also view the proposals and give feedback online via the council's consultation webpage.

All comments will be used to help shape the next stage of plans for the Bridge Street site.

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