Amateur astronomers in Shropshire have secured the green light to establish a new observation facility at a local village hall. Members of the Shropshire Astronomical Society (SAS) were granted permission by Telford and Wrekin planners to install a compact, domed structure at Rodington Village Hall, situated near Shrewsbury.
The project involves relocating a telescope and fibreglass dome previously used by the Irish Rangers at the Tern Hill army base near Market Drayton. The group has been operating from Rodington for the past 25 years and hopes the installation will spark greater community interest in the skies.
Stephen Szwajkun, a representative for the society, highlighted the significance of the project in their application, describing it as the first public astronomical observatory in the region. He added that the facility is intended to inspire residents across Telford and Wrekin.
Society chairman Philip Osman emphasized that a permanent site would allow the organization to expand its outreach efforts and connect with younger generations. He noted that the structure, which was purchased in May, would serve as the only publicly accessible observatory in the county.
The planned dome is approximately 2.7 metres (8ft 9inches) tall. Council officials reviewed the proposal and concluded that the structure, while described as “somewhat unusual,” would add visual interest to the site. They determined that the observatory would not cause unacceptable noise, disturbance, or an increase in traffic and parking for nearby residents.
Planners ultimately agreed that the facility would serve as a valuable addition to local community and educational resources.
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