Oswestry Bounds into Summer!

As the summer months arrive, Oswestry’s town centre streets are buzzing with fresh floral colours as we look forward to a packed calendar featuring some exciting and spectacular family events.

Spring has been a busy time for Oswestry BID (Business Improvement District), so here’s a brief update on some of our recent activities and projects aimed at making Oswestry a better place to live, work, enjoy and do business.

Street Rangers Funding Secured

In April, we had the pleasure of welcoming Assistant PCC (Police and Crime Commissioner), Steve Mackay, to Oswestry, after it was announced that funding for our Street Rangers had been secured for the next two years.

Oswestry BID Manager, Adele Nightingale, said, “This funding allows us to build on the excellent work done to date and continuing to support West Mercia Police in reducing anti-social behaviour and shoplifting. The presence of Street Rangers in our town centre has made a real positive impact, actively working with our local Police, businesses and residents. The feedback has been extremely positive, and we are delighted that the PCC has recognised the importance of our project and its progression.”

Brightening Up the Town

Now, as the tourism season starts to ramp up, we naturally focus on delivering projects that enhance the town centre’s appearance and appeal. Among the most noticeable of these are the new bunting installations in bright pastel shades, fluttering gently above Oswestry’s shopping areas.

Our street planters too have received expert care and attention from the green-fingered, cheerful volunteers of Oswestry in Bloom. BID are pleased to support their work, and the stunning enhancement and greening of the high street they provide. With town centre safety and atmosphere in mind, the BID have had the Festoon Lighting installed once again, helping to make evenings in the town feel warmer, safer, and more inviting for the night-time economy. These strings of ambient lights have brightened up several key streets, improving visibility while adding a reassurance and charm to the evening.

Spectacular Community Events

We’re proud to have already brought a series of exciting events to the town. In early spring, the Street Circus rolled into town on the Bailey Head, wowing crowds with acrobatics, juggling, and family-friendly fun. Then, just weeks later, Festival Square was transformed again, this time into a wonderful urban beach, complete with deck chairs, golden sand, and the sounds of seagulls and sea – offering families a taste of the seaside without leaving Shropshire! Both events brought smiles to faces young and old, and delivered a welcome boost to footfall for local businesses.

And the events continued with BID also proudly supporting this June’s Oswestry Community Games, celebrating local sports, health, and wellbeing in an inclusive, action-packed event. Families and young people having the chance to try out new activities, connect with local sports clubs, and enjoy a sense of togetherness that Oswestry continues to be known for. A fantastic reminder of the importance of shared spaces, active living, and collaboration between community organisations and businesses.

Coming Soon…

This July, on the weekend of 5th and 6th, Oswestry plays host to the ever-popular Oswestry Food & Drink Festival, the streets will be lined with stalls brimming with culinary delights – from artisan cheeses and local ciders to exotic spices and sweet treats. It’s a celebration of local producers, makers, and all things delicious – the perfect excuse to spend a day grazing your way through Oswestry’s tastiest offerings.

Then in August, on the weekend of 16th and 17th, our eyes turn to the skies for the return of the Oswestry Balloon Carnival, one of the town’s most spectacular annual events. Organised in association with Nightingale House Hospice, Oswestry Town Council, and Oswestry BID, and beloved by locals and visitors alike, the carnival promises a weekend of breathtaking balloon displays, live entertainment, and family fun in Cae Glas Park – a highlight of the calendar.

There’s never been a better time to explore, support, and celebrate your town!