Views on Widemarsh Street pedestrianisation

Proposals to pedestrianise Hereford’s Widemarsh Street were given a good hearing at a specially called meeting to hear from individuals and organisations who would be most affected by it.

Many of those who turned out to the meeting to give their views were in favour of the pedestrianisation, however other views were also expressed.

A number raised issues they felt needed addressing before any firm plans were drawn up.

Cllr Chris Chappell, Chairman of Herefordshire Council’s Social and Economic Development Scrutiny Committee, called the meeting to seek the views of a range of individuals and organisations.

The meeting was held last Wednesday, January 26, and attracted a crowd of around 60 members of the public who heard evidence being given by those invited to take part in the evening.

“The meeting was very worthwhile and has given us a lot of extremely valuable information,” said Cllr Chappell, Chairman of the Social and Economic Development Scrutiny Committee, who chaired the meeting.

“There was a very good turnout and a lively debate about the pros and cons of pedestrianising Widemarsh Street.

“These findings will be presented to Cllr Mike Wilson, Cabinet Member (Highways and Transportation) as part of the on-going consultation process. Cllr Wilson, along with his Cabinet colleagues, will ultimately make any decision.

“I want to make sure they have the fullest picture of people’s views - I want to make sure as many people as possible have the opportunity to have their say before any decision is made,” added Cllr Chappell.

“We’re taking the issue seriously and we’re taking consultation surrounding this issue seriously.”

During the meeting it became apparent that while local businesses were in favour of pedestrianisation, they had a number concerns.

“This was in contrast to most of the shoppers, cyclists and those representing disabled people, who said they felt it was important that the road was pedestrianised

“Overall it’s given us a valuable impression of people’s views and we appreciate them taking the time to give us their opinions.”

At the meeting it was announced that an experimental pedestrianisation of Widemarsh Street is to take place during the Summer.

There are a number of ways the experimental pedestrianisation could happen and the Council launched a formal consultation period – which runs until February 17 – during which people can have their say on the proposals, including the format of the experimental pedestrianisation of Widemarsh Street.

Anyone wanting to have their say on either how the experimental pedestrianisation should happen or general comments on the plans, can do so via the Council’s website – http://www.herefordshire.gov.uk/ltp/.