Shrewsbury is showing its practical support for tourism by introducing two new coach drop off and pick up points which are more convenient for the town centre.
Coach drivers can now set-down visitors in bays at Dogpole and Shoplatch, which are closer to Shrewsbury’s shops and Museum and Art Gallery, before parking their vehicles free of charge in the long stay coach parking areas at Frankwell and Abbey Foregate.
The move by Shrewsbury BID and Shropshire Council is being done on an informal basis for a 12 month trial period, but will be made permanent if well received by town centre businesses and operators.If anyone has comments they wish to make about the provision of these stops, either for or against, please direct them to traffic.engineering@shropshire.gov.uk.
Louise Cross Shropshire Council’s visitor economy manager, said: “Tourism is important to our local economy and we want to show coach companies and group travel organisers they are very welcome in Shrewsbury and that we value their support. Shrewsbury is an attractive destination which draws people from all over the UK and overseas. These drop off points will make life easier for our visitors and also help reduce congestion at peak times.”
Dilwyn Jones, owner of Sabrina river boat cruises and a BID Board director, said: “This great initiative shows we are truly open for business and ready for the busy visitor season. The BID’s partnership approach is all about taking action to identify and solve issues for the good of the town.”
Coach drivers will be encouraged to set down passengers and move on as soon as possible. They can wait at a designated long stay parking area until they are ready to return to a pick up point to collect their passengers. Coach drivers can also obtain free coffee or tea and a snack at the Market Hall buffet to the value of £3. Raven Meadows bus station provides a driver rest room for bus and coach drivers about a five minute walk across the footbridge from Frankwell Coach Park.
