This report seeks Cabinet approval of the scheme objectives included in the body of the report which sets out the progress made to date in developing the Strategic Outline Business Case. The report also identifies the interrelationship with the Hereford City Masterplan and the Local Transport Plan, and suggests a broad timetable to take the scheme through to construction and operation

That:

a)    Cabinet approves the project objectives as set out in this report;

b)    Cabinet notes the progress in developing the Strategic Outline Business Case (SOBC) for the Eastern River Crossing and Link Road; and

c)    The Service Director for Highways and Transport in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Transport and Infrastructure is authorised to take operational decisions associated with progressing the SOBC in respect of the project.

The Strategic Outline Business Case (SOBC) will use the objectives recommended in this report to develop a long list of options. Benefits, risks and constraints will be considered before a short list of possible options is included in the SOBC report that will be finalised in the spring of 2023. There are currently no options that have been considered and rejected.