Controversy over secret Ludlow Town Walls report takes fresh twist

The section of historic wall, behind St Lawrence's Churchyard collapsed way back in 2013 - but has not yet been repaired.

The saga has involved a dispute over the ownership - and ultimately responsibility for the walls.

The ongoing issue took a step forward earlier this month when the Parochial Church Council (PCC) announced that it was submitting a Freedom of Information request in a bid to gain access to a secret report commissioned by Ludlow Town Council.

The report, carried out by structural engineers is said to have assessed the structure of the wall, the reasons for the collapse, and options for repairs.

The council had offered to share the report with organisations involved in discussions over the walls - but on a "confidential basis", suggesting that those wanting access sign 'non disclosure agreements' (NDA) to receive the report.

But, the town council has now said it has released the report to four groups involved in the discussions, without the need for an NDA.

The groups in receipt of the report are Shropshire Council, the PCC of St Lawrence’s, the Town Walls Trust and Historic England.

In a statement the council said it's previous position, requesting NDAs to view the report, was because it was worried the report would be 'misinterpreted' if released to the public.

The statement confirming the latest development said: "The Council wishes to provide an update on the section of the town wall adjoining St Lawrence’s churchyard, which has partially collapsed.

"It appears well known that the Council appointed structural engineers, without prejudice, to report on the structure of the wall, the reasons for its partial collapse and options for remedial works.

"The Council had proposed disclosing the report to the various other organisations directly engaged in discussions regarding the repair of the town wall but wished to do so on a confidential basis.

"The Council suggested that the parties achieved this via non-disclosure agreements, as it was concerned that the technical nature of the report is such that there is potential for it to be misinterpreted and misconstrued if released into the public domain without further discussion between those involved.

"The Council has also become aware of a significant amount of misinformation and speculation regarding the Council’s handling of the report.

"In these circumstances, the Council decided to reconsider its position and unanimously decided at a meeting on Monday, December 16, 2024, to release the report to Shropshire Council, the PCC of St Lawrence’s, the Town Walls Trust and Historic England and this has been actioned."