City Centre Improvements

[Image]: Artist's impression of Eign Gate once the refurbishment is complete.

The refurbishment of Eign Gate starts on Friday, May 6, and a month later the eagerly-awaited trial pedestrianisation of Widemarsh Street begins.

It will mean a number of temporary road closures and motorists are being advised to look out for signs and leave a little more time for journeys which involve crossing the city centre.

“We apologise in advance for any inconvenience the road closures cause, but we know it will be worth it,” said Cllr George Hyde, Cabinet Member  (Economic Development, Markets and Property).

“The Eign Gate refurbishment will mean new paving, street lighting, seating and trees. It will totally transform this important area of the city centre,” added Cllr Hyde.

“We’re working closely with traders to keep them informed and will be doing all we can to keep any disruption to a minimum.”

The first phase of this refurbishment involves the reconstruction and maintenance of High Street where it meets Broad Street.

As a result, Widemarsh Street, High Street and Broad Street (between High Street and West Street) will be closed from Friday, May 6 to Wednesday, June 8.

During the refurbishment pedestrian access to all the premises in Eign Gate will be maintained.

While the first phase of the Eign Gate refurbishment will be completed on June 8, the complete project will be finished by the end of September.

June 8 also marks the start of the experimental pedestrianisation of Widemarsh Street. The road will be closed until December 31 between 10.30am – 4.30pm.

During that period extensive surveys will be conducted and evidence collected to help the Council gain a clear insight into the long-term impacts of a permanent closure.

Gates will be installed across its junction with Blueschool Street to enforce the closure and traffic, including coaches visiting Hereford Cathedral, will be diverted along West Street. Access to Widemarsh Street will be permitted to emergency vehicles.

Cllr Mike Wilson, Cabinet Member (Highways and Transportation), said:  “Following calls from both the public and traders to improve conditions for pedestrians in Widemarsh Street and High Street, the Council’s Cabinet has agreed to proceed with the experimental closure of the road.

“The road will be closed until December 31. Once we reach this point we will have consulted widely and will have drawn up plans for a possible long-term pedestrianisation of this road.

“This is a very exciting time for the city centre and we’re sure these changes will have a positive impact for both shoppers and traders.

“It is most important that we receive the views of all interested parties, and there will be ample opportunity for people to give us their views during the trial period.”