Have your say on the future of development and transport in the county

A draft Local Plan document has been prepared and it sets out how the county could grow in the longer term.  The Local Plan is important as it relates to new development of housing, businesses and industry as well as identifying the necessary infrastructure to support growth such as community facilities like schools, medical facilities, and community halls as well as transport links. Additionally, it sets out what land should be kept available for recreation, farming and wildlife.  The Local Plan 2021- 2041 will outline the planning framework for the county for the period to 2041 while at the same time achieving the Council’s social, economic and environmental objectives.

The Local Transport Plan describes the travel infrastructure needed to support the Local Plan, including footways, cycle lanes, roads and bus services. It sets out what, where and how we intend to invest in transport in Herefordshire. The Plan will cover the period from 2024 to 2041. At this early stage, the council would like to understand people’s priorities for improving transport services in the county. The feedback provided will help to shape the detail of the plan, before a wider public consultation on the proposals is undertaken later in the year.

Cllr Jonathan Lester, Leader of Herefordshire Council, said: “These two draft Plans are incredibly important and will shape how the county looks and performs for the next two decades, so it is vital that we gather as much feedback as possible to help shape our future. The Local Plan is the heart of everything we want to deliver, covering development of new housing and accompanying infrastructure, strengthening the economy, improving local retail and town centres, and helping us in our commitment to protecting our beautiful natural environment.

“No meaningful development is possible without investment in the supporting infrastructure, most notable our transport networks. The draft Local Transport Plan will inform exactly what form this investment will take, governing our roads, footways, cycle lanes and bus services.

“I would encourage everyone to get involved and have their say.”

Materials to respond to the Local Plan consultation and Local Transport Plan engagement are now live and will run until 20 May 2024:

Local Transport Plan

Local Plan

There will also be in-person events/roadshows across the county to give people the opportunity to discuss and ask questions about the Plans.