Smithfield Riverside is a key strategic site identified in the Shrewsbury Big Town Plan, and in 2018 Shrewsbury Council began a process of land assembly, taking control of sites previously in private ownership in order to ensure that the community and economic potential of the area can be realised.

Single ownership by the local authority allows a holistic, well‑designed redevelopment that maximises public benefit, delivery certainty and long‑term value.

Shropshire Council recognises the role it has in the creation of economic growth and regeneration within the town of Shrewsbury, the county town of Shropshire. Its place-shaping directorate are custodians of the project working alongside the commissioned project team.