Wellington public realm

Vision

The overall project aims to encourage a feeling of pride, belonging, character and identity for the local community. It also strives to support retailers, offering mixed uses for residential, leisure and entertainment purposes.

Wellington town centre plays a key role in the prosperity of Telford and Wrekin and by improving the appearance of Wellington’s public areas, it can not only maximise its contribution to this, but also becomes a place where people feel good when they visit, shop, work or live there.

If an area is upgraded and attractive it will be healthier, safer and cleaner and therefore more people will want to go there. It also means that businesses will be more likely to invest money, build or trade there, which improves the economy and creates jobs. 

The project

This project is supported by Capital Regeneration Programme Funding, Telford & Wrekin Council and Wellington Town Council.

This work is part of a larger investment scheme in Wellington, view the Wellington regeneration page to view all the projects taking place in Wellington.

The scope aims to provide high-quality public spaces and footpaths to encourage better access for all people including those with mobility or sensory issues.

The public space refurbishment is planned throughout Wellington Centre and extends through Church Street.

Church Street redevelopment project is planned to be delivered over three project phases:

• Phase one - station approach to the north of Queen Street 
   
• Phase two - Queen Street to Vineyard Road
  
  Scope of works:
  • widening footpaths for pedestrians and replacing paved walkways with new long-lasting surfaces 
  • formalise parking bays to improve safety
  • upgrade old drainage infrastructure
  • resurfacing of the road
  • improve all public realm street scene elements identified in phase three.
     
• Phase three - Wellington Centre public realm improvements include:
  • installing new ‘welcome’ totems with bespoke designs to match new  benches, bins, and planters
  • eight new recycling bins and also replacing twenty old bins
  • replacing fourteen existing benches 
  • new seating areas incorporating planters with shrubs and flowers
  • replacement of 33 bollards with new automated bollard system at all main access points to the town
  • upgrade to old street lighting infrastructure
  • upgrade and replace old hanging baskets and finger posts.

The project focuses on buildings and public spaces within the towns conservation area which contains many of the towns key assets including Wellington Market, Market Square, the rail and bus stations and the historic ‘lanes of Duke, Crown and Bell Streets.

There will also be public realm improvements to market approaches to create a sense of arrival to Wellington market (linked to the Wellington conservation area public realm improvements).

Key milestones

January 2025 - June 2025
Church Street start on site.

Spring 2025 - Spring 2026
Public realm works.

Frequently asked questions

Investing in Telford and Wrekin - £800,000 to revitalise Wellington town centre and create a better Wellington.

A major regeneration project has started in Wellington this year, that will see:

• wider footpaths
• dedicated parking bays
• upgraded drainage
• automated traffic bollards
• replacing twenty old bins
• installing eight new recycling bins
• new benches and hanging baskets
• new ‘welcome’ totems with bespoke designs.

The project, which is part of a larger investment scheme in Wellington, focuses on buildings and public spaces within the town’s conservation area which contains many of its key assets.

This includes Wellington Market, Market Square, the rail and bus stations and the historic lanes of Duke Street, Crown Street and Bell Street.

Work has started in Church Street (January 2025) and should last five months over two phases. The final, third phase will take place from spring 2025 to spring 2026.

What does public realm mean?

Public realm refers to the space around, between and within buildings that are publicly accessible, including streets, squares, parks and open spaces.

What work is included within the scheme?

The scheme has been designed to enhance the town’s environment and overall appeal, creating a vibrant, welcoming place that boosts business and enhances quality of life.

• Improved streets
  Upgrading pavements, road surfaces and lighting to create safer, more attractive walking and cycling routes.
• Public amenities
  Installing new benches, bins, and signage to improve the functionality and visual appeal of public spaces.
• Civic areas
  Revitalising central public spaces to host community events and gatherings, fostering a sense of community and connection.
• Improving accessibility
  Helping to ensure public areas are accessible to everyone, including improved pathways and crossings.
• Art and culture initiatives
  Incorporating public art and cultural elements to celebrate heritage and identity.

How will the work impact me?

By prioritising pedestrian safety and maintaining access to businesses, we aim to minimise disruption and support the economy while enhancing the public realm in Wellington.

Telford & Wrekin Council is dedicated to ensuring that pedestrians can navigate the area safely and continue to access businesses throughout the construction period.

• Maintaining access
  We are planning temporary pedestrian pathways that will remain open, allowing safe passage around construction areas. These pathways will be clearly marked to guide pedestrians.
• Business access
  Access to businesses will be preserved and will identify and implement specific access points, ensuring customers can reach them easily.
• Regular communication
  The Council will provide ongoing updates about the project’s progress. This information will be shared through various channels, such as social media, community newsletters, and local media.
• Community feedback
  We encourage feedback throughout the process. This input will help us make necessary adjustments to improve access and address any concerns that may arise. Contact details are available at the end of this webpage.

Will work affect access to the railway and bus stations? 

Bus station access will be unaffected for both pedestrians and vehicles.

Church Street access will be kept open wherever possible with one way access heading south towards Station Road.

For people with accessibility needs, Market Street will be open for access to the car park formerly belonging to Wilko’s. Please approach the traffic management officer stationed near the car park, who will guide people further on parking and access. Disabled bays are available on Station Road. 

Why is all this work taking place in Wellington?

The improvements aim to refresh the town and make it more attractive. Telford & Wrekin Council is addressing several key goals.

• Boosting the economy
  Upgraded public spaces will attract businesses, visitors, and create a more welcoming environment for residents and tourists.
• Engaging the community
  These projects are designed with input from the people of Wellington, ensuring the changes meet local needs and strengthen community pride.
• Promoting sustainability and accessibility
  The plans aim to make Wellington more sustainable and accessible for everyone.
• Supporting long-term growth
  These efforts align with wider regional development goals, helping position Wellington for future success.

How is the project being funded?

The total budget for the public realm scheme is approximately £800,000 funded in part by Telford & Wrekin Council and the Levelling Up (LUF) and Towns’ Funds.

Why is the funding being used in this way?

The top five reports over the past five years (2019 - 2024) include issues around street furniture, drainage, road markings and road safety. These accounted for nearly 84 per cent of all reported issues which is why these categories feature as main elements of the project.

The majority of maintenance work relate to slab / block / sett issues, followed by potholes and post/signs, these categories highlight the key areas of focus for maintenance and improvements on Church Street.

Why can't the money be used to fix potholes?

The money for the Wellington Public Realm scheme comes from the Levelling Up Fund (LUF) and the Towns Fund, which are specifically for improving public spaces and boosting economic growth in towns.

If you spot a pothole, complete our online form to report a pothole.