Last week I wrote to the Secretary of State for Defence, Michael Fallon, to explain the historic importance the Copthorne barracks has for Shrewsbury. Whilst Members of Parliament cannot become involved in matters relating to planning due to the fact that the MOD don’t have to seek planning permission and that this is Government land to begin with I can try to intervene to put forward the views of constituents. Many have written to me stating how they feel it is important for the Town to maintain its strong historical bond with the various regiments who were based there during the last 130 years and who return to Shrewsbury for reunions. I am also keen for some buildings and the character of the site to be protected and retained for the use of these veterans and to maintain the history of our town for future generations.
The parts of the Barracks I would like to see retained and not demolished or built upon include The Officers Mess Building, the two accommodation blocks as you enter the site ( one on each side) and the sports pitches which have been used for both football and cricket.
I have requested that the relevant Minister with responsibility in this area comes to visit the site with me and the local Councillor, Peter Nutting. The Ministry could then see first-hand the areas my constituents and I would like to retain.
Timings are now very tight and hopefully our meeting can be arranged before the Department move forward with these proposals.
Please feel free to contact me if you feel I can be of any assistance, my office can be contacted on 01743 233 646 or emailed at mail@daniel4shrewsbury.co.uk