Major projects that will improve transport, support businesses, protect historic buildings and improve public spaces across Herefordshire are continuing to move forward.

An update on the projects was presented to Herefordshire Council’s Connected Communities Scrutiny Committee, showing progress on six key schemes that are part of the Council’s “Year of Delivery” in 2026.

The report provides an update on the Hereford Bypass Phase One, Hereford Transport Hub, Ross Enterprise Park, Hereford Museum and Art Gallery, Shire Hall and Holme Lacy Road improvements. It sets out key milestones, current activity, risks and financial information.

Together, these projects represent one of the biggest programmes of investment in Herefordshire in recent years. They will help improve transport links, unlock congestion and growth, support local businesses, protect important buildings and create better places for communities.

The report shows that progress is continuing, with risks being carefully managed. This is despite challenges affecting construction projects nationally, including rising costs, inflation and pressures on supply chains. The report also highlights the importance of robust financial management and governance across the programme.

Key updates include:

• The Full Business Case for the Hereford Bypass Phase One remains on track for publication in July. The scheme aims to unlock congestion, support growth and improve connections across the county. Subject to the necessary approvals, mobilisation is expected later this year, with construction due to begin.
• Construction of the Hereford Transport Hub is continuing, with work now moving into the public areas around the hub. The project remains on track for completion later this year.
• Ross-on-Wye Enterprise Park continues to attract strong interest from businesses, with demand currently higher than the number of available plots. Work is now taking place to explore options for a possible second phase of development.
• Work on Holme Lacy Road is progressing in phases, with around 40 per cent of the scheme now complete. The improvements will see safer crossings and more space for walking and cycling, giving people the choice to travel in a way that best suits them.
• Work continues on updated proposals for the Hereford Museum and Art Gallery and Shire Hall projects. The changes aim to reduce funding gaps, improve affordability and ensure both projects can be delivered in the future.

Leader of Herefordshire Council, Councillor Jonathan Lester, said:

“These projects represent a major investment in Herefordshire’s future. They will improve how people travel, support local businesses, protect our heritage and create places that residents and visitors can enjoy for years to come.

“It is encouraging to see progress being made across such a wide range of projects. Schemes of this size and complexity will always face challenges, particularly during a time of rising costs, but this report shows that these challenges are being managed and that delivery is continuing.

“We are committed to keeping residents informed as these projects develop and making sure every pound invested delivers long-term benefits for our communities.”

The Council will continue to provide updates through its scrutiny process as projects move through design, planning and construction.

The Connected Communities Scrutiny Committee noted the progress and provided constructive feedback and challenge, and committed to providing a set of recommendations for the council to consider as it takes the projects forward.

The full report and supporting papers are available on the Council’s website.