Oswestry - could it become a de facto part of Wales

Powys Plaid Cymru politicians have called for the provision of Welsh medium education in the historic border town to be looke in to

Thought of by many as a Welsh town in England, many living this side of Offa's Dyke see Oswestry as their main town, visiting for shopping and key services rather than travelling to Newtown or Welshpool.

Cllr Elwyn Vaughan said; “Oswestry has always been a key border town, with a high Welsh influence.

"With it being a key service area for a large rural area within Wales and with young people moving there from those communities to live, serious consideration should be given to the provision of bilingual education to enable the sustainability of the language."

Initially, early year’s provision could be established by working with Mudiad Meithrin.

Over time they could pursue bilingual secondary education at Llanfyllin thus making a ability to be fully bilingual in a multi lingual world.”

Cllr Vaughan added: “Whilst some will no doubt rubbish the idea, the reality is, as the status of the language increases and further demand for skilled workers in organisations on Oswestry’s doorstep develops, it makes perfect sense to provide an opportunity for young people to access the necessary skills to compete for work."

"It is a economic skill in exactly the same way as any other skill.

"As one that used to work in Oswestry I am well aware of the unique characteristics, history and opportunities that exist in the town, which often feels more of a part of Wales than England and it makes perfect sense to build on those assets”