The Shropshire Council meeting held on 14 May 2026 saw the adoption of the Much Wenlock Neighbourhood Plan Review, bringing it into force as part of the statutory development plan for Shropshire. The council also approved the Shropshire Domestic Abuse Partnership Strategy 2026-2029, outlining a collaborative approach to reducing domestic abuse and improving outcomes for victims.

Adoption of Much Wenlock Neighbourhood Plan Review

Shropshire Council formally adopted the Much Wenlock Neighbourhood Plan Review, bringing it into force as part of the statutory development plan for Shropshire. This decision followed a successful referendum where 90% of voters were in favour of the plan being used to decide planning applications in the Much Wenlock neighbourhood area. The plan, which covers the period 2024 to 2038, aims to guide development in the parish, focusing on objectives such as supporting sustainable development, meeting local housing needs, promoting economic growth, reducing flood risk, improving transport, enhancing community well-being, ensuring good quality design, and protecting the local environment and biodiversity. The plan includes specific policies on issues like rural exception sites, infill development, commercial development, visitor accommodation, renewable energy, and the conservation of heritage assets.

Shropshire Domestic Abuse Partnership Strategy 2026-2029

The council approved the Shropshire Domestic Abuse Partnership Strategy 2026-2029, a three-year plan developed by the Domestic Abuse Local Partnership Board (DALPB) in collaboration with victims and survivors. The strategy aims to reduce domestic abuse and improve outcomes for victims, children, and families across Shropshire. It is structured around four key priorities: Victims, Perpetrators, Workforce, and Community. The strategy acknowledges the specific challenges of domestic abuse in rural Shropshire, such as geographic isolation and limited access to services, and commits to embedding a rural-aware approach. Delivery of the strategy will be overseen by the DALPB through an accompanying action plan, with regular monitoring and review by the Community Safety Partnership.

Scrutiny Reorganisation and Committee Constitution

The council agreed to a reorganisation of its scrutiny functions, which included removing the Housing Supervisory Board from the Constitution and establishing a new Housing Overview and Scrutiny Committee. The Transformation and Improvement Overview and Scrutiny Committee was renamed the Finance and Improvement Overview and Scrutiny Committee. The terms of reference for these committees were approved, outlining their respective responsibilities and the senior officers and portfolio holders involved. The council also confirmed the constitution of committees and the allocation of seats to political groups for the 2026/27 municipal year, ensuring political proportionality across all committees.

Appointment of Head of Paid Service and Monitoring Officer

The council confirmed the appointment of Tanya Miles to the permanent role of Head of Paid Service (Chief Executive), effective from 1st June 2026. Additionally, Richard Phillips was confirmed as the council's permanent Monitoring Officer (Service Director - Legal and Governance) and Deputy Electoral Registration Officer, with effect from 29th June 2026. These appointments followed a recruitment process overseen by the Chief Officer Employment Panel.

Shropshire Council Corporate Plan 2026-2030

The council approved the Shropshire Council Corporate Plan 2026-2030, which sets the strategic direction for the next four years. The plan is built around six priority ambitions: a financially sustainable council, connected communities, safe and inclusive places with adequate housing, opportunities for health and well-being, a protected environment, and a thriving economy. The plan acknowledges the council's financial emergency and the need to align delivery commitments with available resources, potentially impacting service standards. It emphasizes a shift towards enabling and influencing, working in partnership with various stakeholders. The plan will be supported by a performance management framework, including Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and an annual review process.

Adoption of the Jo Cox Civility Pledge

The council's Leader supported the Jo Cox Civility Pledge, encouraging all members to sign up to commitments promoting a civil and constructive tone in debate, integrity, honesty, compassion, and respectful behaviour towards others. It was also resolved that the Pledge would be referenced on all Cabinet and Committee agendas as a reminder to members.

Motions

Two motions were debated:

• Motion on Net Zero Spending: A motion proposed by Councillor Brendan Mallon, supported by the Reform Group, called for the immediate suspension of all Net Zero related spending pending a review of value for money. The motion fell after a vote.
• Motion on Removal of Canal Towpaths from Safe Walking Routes Policy: A motion proposed by Councillor Carl Rowley sought to remove canal towpaths from classification as safe walking routes for school transport eligibility and to amend the walked route assessment framework. The motion fell on a vote.

Other Business

The council received and noted the report of the Shropshire and Wrekin Fire and Rescue Authority. Future meeting dates for the Council in 2026-2027 were also agreed.