Letter: Goodbye to Hadley Centre's Chassis Plant

Much has been written about the demise of the Chassis Plant in Hadley Centre.

It would seem that a very small minority is now criticising Telford & Wrekin Council's decision not to retain it. As with most things, it's those who shout the loudest who are heard.

Perhaps I could answer for the silent majority, many of whom were glad to see its removal.

In the late 1990s the then Hadley Parish Council did discuss its removal because of complaints it was an eye-sore. A straw poll by Hadley Residents Association found eight out of 10 wanted it removed.

The ruling Labour Group at the time invited the opinion of only shopkeepers who did not live in Hadley. They wished it to be kept, so it was.

Over the next 10 years the sculpture became increasingly dangerous as children climbed the taller chassis with the potential of serious injury from falling on to the shorter chassis beneath.

Local people had several opportunities to express their opinion during the consultation but obviously none of those complaining now took the trouble to voice their opinions, which would certainly have been considered.

The sculpture was a piece of modern art most residents of Hadley neither asked for nor wanted.

Councillor John Smart

Hadley