Since 1970, Gillhams Delicatessen and Eatery has been a beloved fixture of Oswestry’s high street, serving generations of local customers with high-quality products, good food, and personal service. As a pillar of our independent business community, Gillhams is looking to secure its long-term future on Church Street, and local residents and businesses have an opportunity to show their support.

The Proposal: Revitalising an Empty Premises

Gillhams’ proposal focuses on expanding into the adjacent former Radfords Butchers shop. This planned expansion will enable the team to create additional space, upgrade their facilities, broaden their offering, and enhance the experience provided in their original shop.

Beyond growing a cherished local eatery, the project promises tangible benefits for Oswestry’s wider town centre:

• Job Creation: Expanding the footprint will create new local employment opportunities.
  
  
• High Street Regeneration: Bringing a prominent, vacant shop back into active commercial use helps maintain healthy footfall and supports neighbouring traders.
  
  
• Heritage Preservation: Gillhams fully recognises the importance of Oswestry’s historic buildings and conservation area, with plans designed to respect and enhance the character of Church Street.
  
  

Why Community Support Matters

While earlier plans faced refusal, Gillhams remains dedicated to investing in Oswestry’s town centre. Revised planning applications are now open for public consultation, giving community members a chance to voice their views.

“Gillhams has been part of Oswestry for over 50 years, and we want to make sure it continues to be part of the town’s future. Our plans were about investing in the business, creating local jobs and bringing an empty shop back into use. We’re not just looking at what Gillhams can become, but at how we can continue contributing to Oswestry as a whole. We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported us so far, and we hope the community will continue to get behind us.”

How to Have Your Say

A thriving high street relies on proactive investment and community backing. If you would like to support Gillhams’ plans to grow, create local jobs, and revitalise Church Street, please review the new planning applications and submit your supportive comments before the consultation closes.

• Closing Date for Comments: 16 November 2026
  
  
• Action: Search the Shropshire Council Planning Portal for the latest Gillhams / Church Street applications to review the plans and submit your comments in favour.
  
  

Submit your comments to: https://pa.shropshire.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=summary&keyVal=TN0I8TTDLZE00