Herefordshire Council has appointed a contractor to carry out extensive engineering, environmental and safety related improvements and maintenance works at Wilton rock face, with the scheme due to begin on 19 October 2026 and continue until 11 December 2026.

The Council recognises that delivering a long-term solution at Wilton rock face has been a priority for Ross Town Council and local people. The council has remained committed to delivering the scheme, and the appointment of a contractor means the works can now get underway.

The scheme is designed to improve and maintain the site and help capture any future rockfall, while also improving the appearance of the existing infrastructure so that it blends more sympathetically with the surrounding rock face.

The works will include removal of vegetation from the base of the rock face, installation of new drainage infrastructure, construction of a rock trap and installation of a concrete block wall with stone facing.

Rockfall occurred at the site in 2019, resulting in the road being closed and temporary barriers being installed before it could reopen. There have subsequently been further rockfalls contained by the barriers.

Due to the nature of the works and the space needed to carry them out safely, Wilton Road will be fully closed between both junctions with Wye Street from 19 October to 11 December. Royal Parade will also be closed for the duration of the works.

Signed diversion routes will be in place, with advance signage installed to inform residents, businesses and road users. Pedestrian access will be maintained wherever possible.

The Council is also contacting properties and businesses in the immediately affected area ahead of work beginning. Businesses are being encouraged to plan ahead and make alternative arrangements for deliveries where necessary.

The timing of the scheme has been planned around ecological requirements at the site, with work taking place outside sensitive periods to avoid disturbing nesting birds and bats.

The closure is likely to cause some disruption and road users are asked to plan their journeys in advance and allow additional time.

Updates will be provided as the scheme progresses.

Residents and road users can keep updated on roadworks across Herefordshire through the Herefordshire Highways social media channels:

https://x.com/HfdsStreets

https://www.facebook.com/HfdsStreets?locale=en_GB

And through the Council’s website.