That:

(a)  having regard to the feedback to the HTP Phase 1 consultation report and the Hereford Bypass corridor assessment framework report the shortlist of route corridors shown in paragraph 25 below be approved;

(b)  Phase 2 consultation on the approved shortlist of bypass route options and possible active travel measures be undertaken to gather feedback to inform the selection of a preferred route for the bypass and to enable the preferred package of measures to be further developed and

(c)  the assistant director environment and place be authorised to take all operational decisions necessary to inform a decision to determine a preferred route for the bypass and a package of active travel measures within a maximum budget of £1m.

1.    An option for proceeding with the Hereford growth proposals without the provision of a bypass was considered and discounted during the Core Strategy process. This decision is required to progress the bypass route assessment work to select a preferred route for the bypass and not to progress this work will mean the HTP objectives and core strategy growth targets cannot be achieved.

2.    An option not to progress any further work until the consultation takes place and feedback received. This is not recommended as the selection of a preferred route will take account of a range of technical work which includes but is not limited to the consultation feedback. This work should progress alongside the consultation.