Council leader calls for new river crossing

Council leader Roger Phillips has reaffirmed Hereford's pressing need for a ring road and a second river crossing if the city is to have a strong economic future. A new highways management plan, discussed by Herefordshire Council's cabinet last week (29 May 2008), put toward a new strategy to tackle growing traffic congestion.

"Having listened to what is important to local people, and local business, it is clear that traffic congestion in Hereford is their number one concern", he said. "The council is determined to advance a number of strategies, investments and ideas that include a range of options - like park and ride, more cycle ways and footpaths - as well as a new partnership approach with bus operators to improve punctuality".

Councillor Phillips stressed that the council's transport strategy aims to increase the number of journeys made by sustainable means - such as public transport, walking and cycling - but that would not be enough to address the traffic congestion caused by increased road traffic and Hereford's historic street pattern and densely developed residential areas.

"We need a number of solutions to the problem, but clearly, if Herefordshire is to encourage business, create new jobs and compete effectively in the wider regional economy it needs serious investment in its road infrastructure - and that included a new river crossing for the city".