If you’re a landlord in Shrewsbury, 2026 isn’t business as usual – it’s the beginning of a transformative decade for the town and its property market.
With the first “traffic loops” and pedestrian-first zones now live as part of the Shrewsbury Big Town Plan, and the Renters’ Rights Act 2026 reshaping legal standards for landlords across the UK, this year brings both change and opportunity. Especially if you own, or are thinking of investing in – town centre apartments in SY1.
So what does all this mean for your rental income, tenant demand, and legal responsibilities?
In this guide, we break down everything you need to know to stay ahead, from green corridor planning to EPC expectations, and how Belvoir’s Fully Managed service in Shrewsbury can take the compliance pressure off your plate.
The Big Town Plan in motion: What’s changing in 2026?
For years, the Shrewsbury Big Town Plan existed mostly on paper. But in 2026, the ideas are now becoming action.
Traffic loops are changing how vehicles access the town centre, redirecting through-traffic and prioritising space for pedestrians, cyclists and public transport. These changes are being reinforced with:
- Green corridors and landscaped routes through the centre
- Expansion of Smithfield Riverside, with new homes and riverside spaces
- Public realm improvements near Pride Hill, The Quarry and the railway station
- A focus on cleaner air and safer streets
The result? A more liveable, sustainable and attractive town centre, especially for renters seeking modern apartments, walkable locations, and eco-conscious living.
What this means for landlords in SY1
The regeneration is good news for landlords but it comes with conditions. Town-centre property is becoming more desirable, but tenants expect more too.
Let’s look at the practical effects:
1. Pedestrian zones will reshape tenant demand
With less car access and more foot-friendly design, tenants will value properties that:
- Are close to shops, cafés and transport links
- Include secure bike storage or EV charging nearby
- Offer modern interiors and good insulation (to go with greener transport)
Marketing your property in SY1 now means highlighting walkability, energy efficiency and convenience, not just square footage.
2. Parking and access details need updating
If your rental includes a parking space or has permit access, you may need to review how tenants access it under the new traffic loop structure.
Landlords should:
- Provide updated access notes in tenancy packs
- Clarify any changes in public transport connections or new car club locations
- Reflect these changes in listings, viewings and handover documents
Renters’ Rights Act 2026: What Shrewsbury landlords must know
While Shrewsbury’s streets are changing, the legislation governing landlords is evolving too. The Renters’ Rights Act 2026 introduces several key updates across England and Wales:
National Landlord Portal
Landlords must register each rental property on a new government-run portal. This includes:
- Tenancy start dates and rent amounts
- EPC rating, Gas Safety Certificate and EICR
- Deposit protection details
- Any local licensing or landlord scheme registrations
Failure to register could lead to:
- Fines of up to £5,000 per property
- Inability to serve a Section 21 notice
- Tenants recovering rent via tribunal
Minimum EPC expectations
While a legal requirement for EPC Band C hasn’t yet been confirmed, the new legislation encourages Band C as the expected standard for most properties by 2028, with new lets needing to meet it sooner.
If your flat in SY1 is currently rated D or E, 2026 is the time to plan insulation or heating upgrades, especially as energy efficiency also links to Fitness for Human Habitation (FFHH) standards.
2026 compliance audit: What to review now
Here’s a quick audit every Shrewsbury landlord should complete this year:
EPC Rating
- Is your property Band C or better?
- Can you make low-cost improvements (e.g. LED lighting, smart thermostats)?
- Are you aware of grant funding or green finance schemes?
Gas and Electrical Certificates
- Do you have a valid Gas Safety Certificate (renewed annually)?
- Is your EICR (electrical safety) less than 5 years old?
- Are carbon monoxide alarms fitted in the right places?
Deposit protection and tenancy info
- Is the deposit registered in a government-approved scheme?
- Have tenants been given the How to Rent guide and prescribed info?
- Are your records ready for the National Portal upload?
Tenant experience
- Are tenants clear on changes to parking, access and amenities?
- Do they know who to contact for repairs?
- Are you offering digital convenience (online payments, communication)?
Town centre premium: How regeneration is driving rents
One effect of regeneration is clear: tenants are willing to pay more for convenience and community.
In SY1, we’re already seeing:
- Shorter void periods in walkable flats near the station or Quarry
- Higher rents on energy-efficient apartments (especially EPC Band C or better)
- Growing demand from young professionals, remote workers and relocators
- Lifestyle-led enquiries: renters seeking access to green space, riverside trails and town-centre amenities
This is why town-centre apartments, once considered niche, are now among the most sought-after properties in Shrewsbury.
But only if they’re managed well.
The benefit of fully managed property services in 2026
With more regulation, changing access rules and higher tenant expectations, landlords in Shrewsbury need more than just a rent collector.
They need a compliance partner, a communications specialist and a local expert. That’s where Belvoir Shrewsbury’s Fully Managed service comes in.
What’s included?
- Ongoing compliance checks (EPC, gas, electrical, documentation)
- Registration support for the new landlord portal
- Professional marketing tailored to town-centre tenants
- 24/7 repair reporting and tenant support
- Rent reviews based on SY1 market trends
- Regular inspections and maintenance scheduling
It’s hands-off for you and seamless for your tenants.
Why Belvoir Shrewsbury?
We’re not just based here, we’re embedded in the community.
Our team understands:
- Which streets are affected by the new traffic system
- What amenities tenants value post-regeneration
- How to future-proof older flats to meet EPC goals
- Where the next wave of riverside development will drive up values
We also stay ahead of the Renters’ Rights Act updates and help our landlords plan rather than panic.
Smithfield Riverside: A spotlight area for investment
The Smithfield Riverside regeneration is creating a new focal point in Shrewsbury with plans for:
- Modern homes
- Public green space
- Commercial units and riverside cafés
- Direct links to existing pedestrian routes
If you already own property nearby, you’re likely to benefit from:
- Increased demand
- Higher rental yields
- Long-term value growth
If you’re considering buying in SY1, 2026 is a smart time to move, before the full premium kicks in.
Key trends we’re watching in 2026
Here’s what to look out for as the year unfolds:
- Cycle-first tenants: Bike storage and car-free living are top features
- Energy performance: Tenants are actively asking about EPCs
- Green amenities: Proximity to The Quarry, pocket parks, or riverside access matters
- Wi-Fi and workspace: Town-centre flats are popular for remote workers
- Sustainability-focused upgrades: Smart heating, eco lighting, and modern appliances are key
Final word: Prepare, don’t react
The changes to Shrewsbury in 2026 are exciting but they also require planning.
If you leave it too late to upgrade, register, or rethink your property’s appeal, you may struggle to compete in a faster, more regulated rental market.
But with Belvoir Shrewsbury, you won’t have to do it alone.
We’ll handle the paperwork, guide the strategy, and manage your property – while you enjoy reliable income, compliant lettings, and growing asset value.
Book your free valuation with us today
Let’s review your compliance, market position and rental strategy, and make sure you’re fully ready for what’s next.
