Widemarsh Street – pedestrianisation trial

Motorists, pedestrians and businesses are being reminded that Widemarsh Street in Hereford City Centre will be closed to traffic from next week as part of an experimental pedestrianisation scheme.

 

A traffic order stopping vehicles from driving along Widemarsh Street and High Street, from the junction with Newmarket/Blueschool Street to Broad Street, comes into force at 10.30am, on Wednesday, June 8.

 

The order prevents traffic from entering between the hours of 10.30am – 4.30pm and will be in place seven days a week.

 

During these times traffic travelling up Widemarsh Street towards the City Centre will not be allowed to cross over Blueschool Street and will have to turn left.

 

All vehicles wishing to access Broad Street and King Street, including coaches visiting Hereford Cathedral, will be diverted along West Street. Access to Widemarsh Street will be permitted to emergency vehicles.

 

The trial period is expected to last until December 31. 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 any permanent closure.

 

A trial closure was widely called for by the public after Transco closed the road to traffic last summer for maintenance work.

 

Cabinet member (Highways and Transportation) Cllr Brian Wilcox, said: “The Council has made no decision whatsoever over the long-term use of Widemarsh Street.

 

“This is an experimental closure aimed at gauging the impacts of any permanent closure.

 

“As well as collating evidence from surveys, the Council also wants to hear from the public, businesses, traders, shoppers and visitors over the trial scheme.

 

“Once we have carefully listened to the views of the public and collated all of the results, the Council will make an informed decision in the overall interests of the City.”

 

Herefordshire Council’s Highway and Transportation Service welcome your comments over the trial. To have your say write to PO Box 246, Hereford HR4 OLE or e-mail streets@herefordshire.gov.uk or phone (01432) 261800.