News in Telford, Shropshire
Tributes have flooded in after the death of a ‘titan’ of local government in Telford.
Councillor Malcolm Smith BEM had been a councillor at parish and borough level for more than 50 years and served on Hadley and Leegomery Parish Council, the former Wrekin Council and its successor Telford & Wrekin Council.
Read morePeople who currently receive the Single Person Discount on their council tax have the chance to notify the council of any changes to their household circumstances.
The two-week window is running from Monday 8 December to Sunday 21 December 2025.
Read moreMany businesses said they were still feeling the effects of her 2024 announcements, which piled on extra staffing costs – and said wage demands were showing no sign of easing.
One employer from the manufacturing sector said: “Business owners are workers too, and probably work more hours for a lower hourly rate than most. I may consider selling up or moving the company abroad.”
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John Haywood (Telford & Wrekin Council Development Delivery Specialist), Leader of the Council, Cllr Lee Carter, Cllr Angela McClements (Cabinet Member for Leisure, Tourism, Culture & the Arts), and Nick Wood (Tailored Project Manager)
Lion House, a new specialist residential facility, has opened its doors in Telford, transforming the long-stalled site of the former Red Lion pub.
The scheme features 11 self-contained apartments, a large communal area, and dedicated staff facilities. Each apartment includes assistive technology to promote independence while ensuring professional support is always available.
Read moreEmergency services responded to a road traffic collision in Broseley, on Sunday afternoon after a car overturned.
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Councillor Lee Carter, Leader of Telford & Wrekin Council: "Our priority is to make sure everyone feels safe and supported in Telford & Wrekin."
Backed by the Home Office, the initiative will deliver a zero-tolerance approach to nuisance drinking, anti-social behaviour, and disorder, while also providing compassionate support for those who need it most.
The winter months bring increased retail activity, seasonal events, and busy night-time economies. Winter of Action addresses these challenges head-on through targeted enforcement, environmental improvements, and community engagement through to January.
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The funding could help make fares cheaper, plan new routes, support cleaner zero-emission buses, and improve the safety and accessibility of bus stops.
Shaun commented: “I’m really pleased to see more than £5 million coming to Telford for our bus services. Reliable and affordable buses are vital for people across our town and this money is a positive step forward. It can help lower fares, improve routes and make bus travel safer and greener.”
Read moreThe last event is full of fantastic items to help make your Christmas special, you won’t want to miss this one!
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Councillor Andrew Eade speaking at Telford & Wrekin Council's cabinet meeting on Thursday, December 4, 2025. Picture: Telford & Wrekin Council
Familiar divisions reopened as councillors clashed over housebuilding targets in Telford and Wrekin. Telford & Wrekin Council’s Conservative opposition leader…
Read moreFifteen years after its debut, Jason Wright takes another look at Tangled.
“It remains one of Disney’s most magical, heartfelt, and unforgettable films. “
Read moreThe festive period brings with it the perfect excuse to curl up on the sofa with a hot chocolate and enjoy a great Christmas film. From animated adventures to slapstick comedy, there’s a movie out there to get everyone in the spirit. Jason Wright has compiled a list of ten must-watch classics that define the family holiday experience…
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Pupils with from left to right: Michelle Salter, Virtual School headteacher, Jo Duncombe, headteacher at Woodlands Primary School and Councillor Shirley Reynolds
Woodlands Primary School in Madeley was awarded at the national ARC (Attachment Research Community) Primary School winner 2025 after previously…
Read moreA festive Christmas Village and Santa’s Grotto have officially opened at Exotic Zoo on selected dates across December.
The zoo team at Telford Town Park have constructed new wooden cabins for the Christmas Village, which is open from 4pm – 7pm on selected dates. Local businesses will trade from the new cabins, and the Candy Cane Café will be open for boozy hot chocolates, mulled wine, and food. Twinkling lights will guide visitors around the festive market stalls, and you can also see the twilight zoo animals. You can visit the Christmas Village without the Grotto by pre-booking or paying on the day.
Read moreThe Agency Patisserie & Tea Rooms has opened its doors, aiming to blend hospitality, retail, and cultural activities to keep visitors in the area longer. Owner Angie Bainbridge secured a business start-up grant from Telford & Wrekin Council’s ‘Pride in Our High Street’ programme.
The tea rooms are open seven days a week and will offer seasonal afternoon teas. The themes will change monthly, based on events like Christmas, Mother’s Day, and Easter.
Read moreHealth and safety rules are proving to be an insurmountable obstacle when it comes to hanging a ‘Merry Christmas’ sign from a bridge in Telford, a meeting heard.
The sign at a pedestrian and cycle bridge over Britannia Way in Hadley had been a feature of the festive season and its absence has prompted comments and speculation on social media.
Read moreA total of 29 High Street Heroes have been crowned in towns across the Borough – nominated by local residents, members of the public and businesses who use their services and feel they make a valuable contribution to the local community.
Councillors presented business winners with trophies and certificates in six Borough towns including Dawley, Ironbridge, Madeley, Newport, Oakengates and Wellington in the run up to Small Business Saturday on Saturday 6 December.
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Councillor Lee Carter smiles as he delivers a joke towards his opposite number at a cabinet meeting on December 4, 2025. Picture: Telford & Wrekin Council
A council leader’s pre-Christmas joke about finding the money to send his opposite number permanently to Llandudno brought the house down at a meeting this week.
Councillors were discussing making a commitment to their £5,000-each Pride Fund which has been used to support community projects when Telford & Wrekin Council’s leader and opposition chief entered a light-hearted tangle.
Read moreA man has been arrested after an estimated £100,000 worth of class A drugs was discovered.
The arrest was made yesterday morning (Thursday 4 December) by Telford Central SNT at an address on Jim Hicks Drive in Stirchley.
Officers discovered a large quantity of class A, and class B drugs. It is estimated the class A drugs hold a street value of around £100,000.
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Telford & Wrekin Council's cabinet met at Southwater One on Thursday, December 4, 2025. Picture: LDRS
Landlords of houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) in Telford will face paying for stricter rules under council plans to tighten planning and licensing regimes.
Telford & Wrekin Council’s ruling cabinet has decided that now is the right time to go for a range of measures because of the impact that concentrations of HMOs are having on parts of the borough.
Read moreOne of the proposals, for a property in Donnington, will return to Telford & Wrekin Council’s planning committee for a second time after councillors deferred a decision to go on a site visit.
The other plan for a home for up to three children in Dothill saw 57 objections, including from Wellington Town Council, and was called in to be decided at Wednesday’s meeting by councillor Karen Tomlinson (Liberal Democrats, Shawbirch & Dothill).
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Friends of the Station members David Bunn, Kath Howard, Antony Hook (Chair), Kath Padgett, Rob Hubbleday, and Cllr Julie Pierce (also Wellington Town Council); Sam Hine (Wrekin Housing Group); John Anderson and Rob Anderson (Meadowdale Garden Centre); Mayor Reg Snell; and Venn Davies (Wellington Rotary Club).
The platform at Wellington Station is looking brighter and more welcoming, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Friends of Wellington Station and some fantastic support from the local community and organisations.
A significant addition to the station comes in the form of brand-new planters which were crafted by talented students Tyler Klimowski and Lucas Davies from Telford College. “We are absolutely delighted with the new planters,” said Kath Howard for the Friends of Wellington Station.
Read moreHomeowners in a village near Newport are in ‘major distress’ over back garden flooding caused by a ‘brick and tree stumps’ blocking a pipe which has been going on for a year, says a councillor.
Councillor Eade says it severely floods gardens to a ‘considerable depth when it overflows due to the blockage.’ and urged Severn Trent to get on with the job.
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Andy Weston, CEO of Shropshire FA, said the association is inviting businesses to “invest in their community’s future.”
The launch of a new brochure today reveals how businesses can transform the community while achieving meaningful corporate social responsibility (CSR) goals through grassroots football partnerships.
Read moreJeevan Punj, founder of Elite Hampers joined a special reception hosted for hundreds of small businesses at the House of Lords on Tuesday, in the lead-up to Small Business Saturday this weekend.
Taking place on 6th December, the campaign celebrates small business success and encourages people to support and spend with small businesses.
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Ann Lombardi, chairs the trustees at Four Hills Education Trust, and attended Hadley & Leegomery Parish Council. Picture: LDRS
Ann Lombardi, who chairs the trustees at Four Hills Education Trust, told councillors at Hadley and Leegomery Parish Council that Millbrook Primary School and Nursery is a part of the trust which held a launch event recently.
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Andrew McNab pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm, criminal damage, escaping from lawful custody and breach of a suspended sentence order.
Andrew McNab pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm, criminal damage, escaping from lawful custody and breach of a suspended sentence order.
Read moreThe water tests recorded that for the “chemical parameters analysed, no pollution was identified”.
A spokesperson for the EA said: “We understand local concerns and our officers have responded by testing the water in July and September which showed there was no pollution in the brook.
“The Hurley Brook is not a designated bathing water and is unlikely to become one due to its location being within the urban area of Telford.”
Read more“By taking our case directly to the top off the MOD, we are making sure ministers understand the scale of opportunity here. We have outstanding defence organisations with hardworking and skilled men and women and a first-class supply chain in our town that I am very proud of and I know we can do even more. I am committed to ensuring Telford’s voice is heard at the highest level.”
Read moreBased in Telford Town Park, the hub offers a variety of bikes and scooters for residents and visitors, including e-bikes, recycled bikes and adaptive bikes. The team works closely with schools, parent groups and local organisations to help people build confidence and enjoy cycling.
The award recognises projects that make a real difference in local communities by encouraging active and sustainable travel.
Read moreDevelopers who built two bungalows in Telford nearly 10 inches higher than approved have been allowed to keep the ground level changes, despite objections.
Residents and St George’s and Priorslee Parish Council objected to the retrospective application from Ashlee Homes for the properties in Freeston Avenue, St Georges.
Read moreCouncillors at Hadley & Leegomery Parish Council have pulled the plug on the controversial sale of Hadley Cemetery Lodge.
A meeting was told that a bid made for the lodge, in Hadley Park Road, fell though partly because of a campaign against the sale by “saboteurs” but also that the council’s finances have improved.
Read moreThe volunteer-run buggy service plays a vital role in improving accessibility for those who may find the hospital’s long corridors or distances challenging.
Volunteers at The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust (SaTH) provide a friendly face and a reassuring presence, offering lifts between the main entrance and clinics.
Read moreNew data has highlighted regional road safety, revealing that more than 150 cyclists were injured in traffic collisions across the West Mercia Police area over the last year. While Shropshire tops the list with 45 injuries, Telford & Wrekin is in third place, recording 22.
Of the 168 recorded incidents, the outcomes for riders were often severe. The police data logged two fatalities, 51 serious injuries and 115 slight injuries.
Read moreA Telford-based care company has applied to the council to change the use of a house in Leegomery to use it for supported living for young people.
Everready Health and Social Care Solutions plans to use the two storey mid-terrace property for up to three residents, aged 16-25, ‘when they are ready to live independently in the community.’
Read moreTelford homeowners are asking for immunity from council enforcement action over the continued use of a chalet on their land as a home.
The chalet at Lincoln Hill, Ironbridge, was allowed to be used as a living space only for the previous occupiers who used it as a granny annexe until she died.
Read moreWe’re reaching out to our local support community, customers, and colleagues to support a charity very close to our hearts—Birmingham Children’s Hospital. A heartfelt thanks to Katarina Kreates for creating our wonderful display.
We kindly ask for small donations or toiletries for patients aged 16 and above. These will be delivered to the hospital on 17th of December.
Catherine’s Mascots will also be joining us, bringing some fun characters to visit the children and spread joy during this special season. Thank you in advance.
Read moreStudents from Burton Borough School in Newport laid on an afternoon of festive treats to showcase their skills and entertain invited guests.
School principal Caroline Bedford said: “The afternoon featured a lively Christmas quiz that ended in a tense tie-break, festive music, cracker pulling and a beautifully decorated room that set the perfect seasonal tone.”
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Emily Myatt, social value coordinator for McPhillips, Sue Chalk, head of service health and wellbeing at Community Resource, Val Hardy, McPhillips company secretary, and Sonia Roberts, Shropshire Community Foundation trustee
The charity has been committed to making life better for people facing challenges in Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin communities for 60 years and the scheme focuses on getting people out of their homes and back into their communities, helping them rebuild confidence and social connections after experiencing challenges such as bereavement, long-term illness, or domestic violence.
Read moreA new quarterly perceptions survey shows residents of Telford and Wrekin are the most likely across the whole West Mercia region to see a police officer or PCSO on a weekly basis. One in four (25%) of the local population reported seeing officers this frequently. This represents a significant rise of 7% compared to the same period last year.
Confidence in West Mercia Police remains steady at 80% across the force area. Almost 6 out of 10 people in Telford and Wrekin feel the force is doing a good or excellent job (57%).
Read moreShropshire Warriors are celebrating a proud moment after four rising stars from the club were selected for the prestigious Basketball England Aspire 25/26 programme. The players are now attending camps as part of their development journey.
The four young athletes represent the Telford-based club across multiple age groups and include Jasmine and Kaitlyn from the U15 Girls team, Huwie from the U13 Boys team, and Brandon from the U15 Boys team.
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Fire caused by an incompatible charger connected to a toy hoverboard (Pic: Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service)
Shropshire Fire and Rescue are reminding people to be extra careful with electrical items after a serious fire in Telford over the weekend caused significant damage to a home.
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Lee Ward was found guilty of all charges by a jury following a 10-day trial at Shrewsbury Crown Court.
A 42yr old man has been handed a six-and-a-half-year custodial sentence after he sexually assaulted a teenage girl in a Telford car park.
On Friday, November 28, Lee Ward was sentenced at Stafford Crown Court
Read moreThe former Church of England School on St Luke’s Road in Ironbridge, known locally as the ‘Blue School’, proved to be a popular lot at Halls’ final property and land auction of the year, selling above its guide price for £125,000. The Grade II listed building was part of a successful collective property and land auction on Friday that saw 17 lots sell for a combined total of £2.2 million across Shropshire and Cheshire.
Read morePowerpoint in Telford has been serving customers for 30 years across two sites and is still open for business.
Read moreCouncillor Carolyn Healy, Telford & Wrekin Council’s Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, Planning and Sustainability, said: “We welcome the Planning Inspector’s announcement of the dates for the Local Plan examination hearings. This is another important milestone for the new Local Plan, which will not only guide how our borough develops, but also sets out how we will protect green spaces and care for our existing communities.”
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Aviramp ChairLifter – a purpose-built and solar-powered lift for Electric Mobility Aids (EMAs) such as mobility scooters
World-leading aviation ramp specialist Aviramp has officially launched its latest innovation – and says it marks a major step forward in improving passenger accessibility.
The Telford-based manufacturer has unveiled the Aviramp ChairLifter – a purpose-built and solar-powered lift for Electric Mobility Aids (EMAs) such as mobility scooters.
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The health and wellbeing board met at Telford & Wrekin Council on Thursday, November 27, 2025. Picture: LDRS
The Connect to Work programme has had its first three successes in breaking down barriers to employment in its first month of operation, out of a total of 28 referrals.
An official for the programme told Telford and Wrekin’s Health & Wellbeing Board that he had seen some of the ‘heartfelt’ emails sent in from people wanting to be a part of the programme that is paid for by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
Read moreAfter nine years, Nick Wilde and Judy Hopps are back to solve another case.
Jason Wright takes a look at the new Disney animated film, Zootropolis 2 hitting the screens in Telford this month.
Read moreThe warrants were carried out at two addresses in Brookside and one in Stirchley by Telford’s proactive CID team with assistance from Task Force.
Three men were arrested and have been held in custody.
Read moreA Shropshire hospitals chief has told other county health leaders that everything is “on track” for their winter preparations.
The board of NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin heard that a key date is Monday, December 1, when new beds and arrangements at the acute hospitals in Shrewsbury and Telford start to become available.
Read moreI’ve demolished many a Greggs but rarely had one come straight back up again…
EG On The Move took over the 24 hour Shawbirch Petrol Station earlier in 2025 and applied to Telford & Wrekin Council to make major changes to the site at the Shawbirch crossroads north of Wellington.
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Four residents in receipt of Adult Social Care - Tom, Simon, Abigail, and Joanne – have moved in together and are benefiting massively from the social support and independence they now have.
A new supported living scheme has welcomed its first residents in Ironbridge. The Heritage Walk development includes 12 purpose-built supported living homes, developed by Telford & Wrekin Council in partnership with the learning disability charity Hft and housebuilder Lioncourt Homes.
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Location of dental practices in Telford & Wrekin delivering NHS services. Picture: NHS Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin
Health officials are ‘hopeful’ that they will find dentists to fill a longstanding gap in NHS provision in southeast Telford.
A meeting was told that ‘golden hello’ payments are being offered to dentists and support staff as well as an increase in the amount that they can get paid for carrying out work for the NHS.
Read moreWoodcote Quarry, at Woodcote, straddles the border of Telford & Wrekin Council’s and Shropshire Council’s areas and operator NRS Aggregates Limited has applied to both planning authorities to extend its life by 10 years to 2045.
A decision from Shropshire Council, the lead authority, is awaited but Telford & Wrekin Council has set down 28 conditions to deal with dust, protection of water from pollution and other matters.
Read moreA student at Haberdashers’ Abraham Darby has completed a massive 21-mile swimming challenge this month, raising a remarkable amount of money for Cancer Research UK.
Joe Costello, 17, finished his final lengths on Saturday morning, achieving his goal of swimming the equivalent width of the English Channel.
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Mario and Bowser in Nintendo and Illumination’s THE SUPER MARIO GALAXY MOVIE, directed by Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic. © Nintendo and Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved.
Jason Wright film reviewer takes a first full look at the long-awaited sequel to 2023’s smash hit The Super Mario Bros. Movie.
Read moreSt Mary’s Church in Sheriffhales, near Shifnal, will host Doves keyboard player Martin Rebelski on Friday, December 5 for an intimate and atmospheric concert including tracks from his new album Monochrome.
Read moreGet ready to celebrate the festive season with a spectacular FREE giveaway on Facebook!
Starting on December 1st and running right up to December 24th, we’re giving away a fantastic prize every single day. That’s 24 chances to win!
Read moreThe numbers applying for consultant roles has risen at The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust (SaTH) with 33 consultants, including both substantive and NHS locum consultants recruited since the start of this financial year on 1 April 2025.
In addition, several more consultants are currently under offer and progressing through the onboarding process with support from the Trust’s Medical People Services team.
Read moreOne of the day’s highlights was seeing the new Telford Flag flown. Amelia, aged 9, who recently won a school competition to design a flag for the Borough, raised the flag with the help of her Mum, in Southwater Square.
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