The investment, to establish a design concept that would protect the area, is being made under the wider £2 million programme to reduce flood risks across the county, announced last month (September).

Councillor Dan Hurcomb, Cabinet Member for Local Engagement and Community Resilience, said:

“This investment reflects our commitment to safeguarding residents, schools and community facilities from the growing threat of flooding.

“By prioritising areas with a history of flood events, we’re not only protecting infrastructure but also enhancing community resilience.  

“I’m proud to see this programme moving forward to address the unique challenges of our county.”

The wider programme of work will target the areas most affected by flooding, aiming to protect homes, businesses, roads and public spaces.

Flooding has caused major disruption in recent years, with over 400 properties impacted and many roads closed in 2024 alone.

In response, the council has been working to complete formal flood investigations and identify long-term solutions.

For this area, the design will aim to determine whether incorporating attenuation could provide a more effective approach to managing water.

Councillor Hurcomb, added:

“The goal is to develop a scheme to keep children in school, families active at the leisure centre and homes safe from water damage.

“This is just the first step in a larger plan to make Herefordshire more resilient to extreme weather.”