To consider consultation feedback and approve the Hereford city centre improvements delivery programme including on street parking in Hereford.

public consultation be carried out in relation to the potential introduction of residents parking schemes within residential areas to the west of the A49 trunk road between the River Wye and Widemarsh Common and the introduction of a cycle contraflow on St Owen Street as shown in Appendix C to the report.

The proposals support the objectives of the Local Transport Plan and aim to support the local economy. 

The proposals outlined in this report are inter-related and aim to improve the city centre and encourage economic vitality whilst also promoting active and sustainable forms of transport.  However, three alternative options have been identified.

Firstly that not all elements of the recommended improvements for the city centre outlined in this report are delivered.  Whilst it would be possible to progress the elements individually or not at all, this is not recommended as the package of measures proposed are inter-related and together form a comprehensive set of proposals to improve the retail environment whilst promoting active travel and effectively managing access and parking of vehicles within the area.  It is considered that not proceeding with all elements would undermine the overall objectives of the scheme to promote economic vitality within the city centre and improve conditions for pedestrians and cyclists.

Secondly, an option could be to reduce the area covered and standard of the proposed refurbishment scheme.  This is not recommended as this could compromise the attractiveness of the Hightown area with different types and standards of pavements in close proximity and would weaken the benefits to the economy that the full refurbishment scheme could provide. It would also result in continued maintenance problems associated with areas left untreated.  Recent experience gained through the implementation of Widemarsh Street refurbishment has shown that the effective use of high quality materials can reduce ongoing maintenance costs and produces a much more attractive street environment.  As such this option is not recommended.

Thirdly, not to progress any improvements to High Town. This option is not recommended because the council has given commitments to invest in improvements to the historic retail centre of the city maintaining its attractiveness to shoppers and visitors and supporting the local economy from the heart of the county.