In a recent interview with Julia Buckley, we delved into some of the most pressing concerns facing Shrewsbury Business Chamber members. From business rates reform to rural public transport, and the electrification of rail infrastructure to climate action initiatives, the discussion highlighted the steps being taken to address these issues. Here we summarise the key takeaways from the conversation, offering insight into what businesses and residents can expect moving forward.
Business Rates Reform: Levelling the Playing Field
One of the foremost concerns raised by Shrewsbury businesses was the current system of business rates, which many feel disproportionately impacts small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) while favouring large multinational corporations. Julia Buckley acknowledged this imbalance, stating:
“We need a level playing field so that businesses are competing fairly. Small and medium enterprises, which are really the lifeblood, particularly in Shrewsbury, need supporting and lifting up.”
To address this, Julia confirmed that business rates reform is a top priority for the current government. The commitment to reform was highlighted in Labour’s manifesto and reiterated in the King’s Speech, with a pledge to overhaul the system within the first year of government. This reform will aim to remove the unfair advantages that large multinationals currently enjoy and create a more supportive environment for SMEs. This will ensure that all businesses contribute their fair share to the economy, allowing smaller enterprises in vibrant communities like Shrewsbury to thrive.
Rural Public Transport: Reconnecting Shrewsbury’s Hinterlands
Access to reliable public transport is a significant issue in Shrewsbury, particularly for those living in rural areas and for businesses that rely on workers commuting from these areas. Julia Buckley emphasised the importance of improving rural transport links, particularly in the first year of the government’s tenure:
“We will change the law to allow local councils to franchise their own bus routes, designing them around passenger needs rather than profitability. This will bring back thousands of bus routes across Shropshire that were cut by commercial operators.”
This legislative change will empower local councils to prioritise the needs of their residents, ensuring that even less profitable routes are maintained through a cross-subsidy model. This is similar to the approach taken by Andy Burnham in Manchester, where surplus income from peak periods is used to fund off-peak services. The goal is to provide reliable, frequent bus services that connect rural areas to Shrewsbury and other key destinations, unlocking opportunities for young people, workers, and businesses alike.
Rail Infrastructure: Electrification and Grid Capacity
The electrification of Shrewsbury’s rail line has been a topic of much discussion, particularly considering the reallocation of HS2 funding. Julia provided an update on the government’s plans:
“Midlands Connect is confident that £500 million of HS2 money will be reallocated to Shrewsbury for the electrification of the line to Wolverhampton. However, this requires addressing a significant issue: grid capacity.”
Julia explained that the local electricity grid currently lacks the capacity to support large infrastructure projects, including rail electrification. The government has recognized this and is prioritising investment in the electric grid to ensure areas like Shropshire can benefit from these upgrades. Once the grid capacity is enhanced, Shrewsbury can look forward to faster, more reliable rail services that connect the town more effectively to the broader Midlands region.
Climate Action: Supporting Businesses in the Green Transition
Climate action is a topic of growing importance for businesses in Shrewsbury, with many eager to contribute to net-zero targets but unsure where to start. Julia spoke passionately about the opportunities presented by GB Energy, a government initiative aimed at fostering growth in the green sector:
“GB Energy will provide investment and access to finance for businesses to grow in the green energy sector. This includes grants for retrofitting buildings, and training programs to close the current skills gap in areas like renewable energy.”
Julia also mentioned the importance of The Carbon Literacy Project training, which has already been undertaken by many councillors in Shropshire. The training emphasises practical changes that can be made at both personal and organisational levels to reduce carbon footprints. The government’s approach is to frame the green agenda as a massive growth opportunity, rather than a set of constraints. This perspective encourages businesses to see sustainability to increase productivity, lower running costs, and create new revenue streams.
Planning and Conservation: Striking a Balance in Shrewsbury’s Heritage
Shrewsbury’s rich architectural heritage is both a blessing and a challenge, particularly when it comes to planning and conservation. Many business owners feel that current planning regulations are too rigid, discouraging the maintenance and modernisation of older buildings. Julia acknowledged this concern:
“There is a balance to be struck between protecting our beautiful streetscapes and allowing for necessary modernisation and expansion.”
To address these issues, the government plans to reform the national planning framework, simplifying the process and providing local councils with additional resources. This includes hiring more planning officers to speed up the process and ensure that businesses can move forward with their projects without unnecessary delays. Additionally, the government is committed to supporting the retrofitting of older buildings, ensuring they meet modern standards while preserving their historical value.
North West Relief Road: A Pragmatic Approach to Reducing Congestion
The North West Relief Road has been a contentious issue in Shrewsbury for decades, with strong opinions on both sides. Julia offered a balanced perspective, acknowledging the challenges while proposing alternative solutions:
“Whether or not the North West Relief Road is built, we must address the immediate issues of congestion, particularly at Battlefield and other key points.”
Given the rising costs of the relief road, which now far exceed the original estimates, Julia suggested reallocating the existing funds to more immediate infrastructure improvements, such as widening the roundabouts at Battlefield and Sundorne. These changes would provide immediate relief from congestion and support business growth by improving access to the town’s enterprise parks.
Conclusion: A Future of Growth and Opportunity
The interview with Dr Julia Buckley offered a comprehensive overview of the challenges facing Shrewsbury and the proactive steps being taken to address them. From business rates reform to transport improvements and climate action, the government’s first-year agenda is packed with initiatives aimed at supporting the local economy and enhancing the quality of life for residents.
As these plans unfold, the Shrewsbury Business Chamber will continue to play a crucial role in advocating for the needs of its members and ensuring that Shrewsbury remains a vibrant and thriving community.
You can listen to the full interview above:
For businesses looking to engage further with these initiatives or discuss their specific concerns, Julia Buckley is available for one-on-one meetings. She can be contacted directly via email at julia.buckley.mp@parliament.uk.
If you’re a business owner or resident in Shrewsbury, now is the time to get involved in shaping the future of our town. Stay informed, share your concerns, and take advantage of the opportunities being presented to ensure that Shrewsbury continues to grow and prosper.