Friday, 18th May 2012

New home is just a stone’s throw away

Oakengates council officials will be packing up their paperwork next month after revealing they are to move premises - 100 yards down the road.

The town council has been running from the office on 22 Limes Walk for eight years but will soon be moving into rooms in the Oakengates Theatre @ The Place.

It’s hoped the move will save on resources giving tax payers value for money.

Michael Gledhill, Oakengates Town Council clerk, said: “Next month, after collaboration and consultation with Telford and Wrekin Council, the Town Council is to move into more suitable and appropriate offices just 100 yards away.

“February 15 is the targeted moving week with us hopefully being operational and fully functional on February 22.

“The new premises are in what was the old Oakengates Town Hall, now known as The Place, and will consist of a general office and a council chamber.

“The move will give the Town Council access to shared resources with the borough.

“These shared resources will result in efficiencies that are allowing the town council to announce a reduction in its setting of the precept for the next financial year and will give local council tax payers an opportunity to see value for money going forward.”

The news comes after it was revealed last week that an urban design specialist is being brought in to spearhead work on a huge £500,000 revamp in Oakengates.

Residents and interested parties are now being invited to attend the launch of the new Oakengates Town Partnership, at Oakengates Reform Church, in Limes Walk, Oakengates from 7pm on January 26.

Councillor Sean Kelly said: “The launch of the new Partnership will mark the start of an exciting period of change for Oakengates.”

Mr Gledhill said: “Oakengates Town Council is thrilled and excited to hear that after a silence of 12 months news on the Regeneration of Oakengates is about to take place.”

by Chrissy Symmons