To approve the draft ‘Hereford City Masterplan a Vision for Our City in 2050’ attached at appendix 1 for consultation in June 2023.

Cabinet members considered a report seeking approval to begin consultation on the draft Hereford City Masterplan. The cabinet member infrastructure and transport introduced the report and explained the importance of a long term plan for the city.

Cabinet members discussed the draft plan and noted that:

·       While the plan focusses on the city, what happens there does impact on the wider county’;

·       Wide ranging consultation is important and particularly with young people as this plan sets out a long term vision;

·       The plan will support future bids for grant funding, aligning with government priorities.

Group leaders gave the views of their groups. The overall aspiration of the plan was welcomed but concerns were expressed about some elements. In particular transport schemes and the reliance on public transport and active travel measures caused concern for some groups while others wanted to see more emphasis on park and ride schemes. In response to queries raised it was noted that:

·       the plan will be refined based on the consultation feedback received;

·       there will still be disabled parking bays and parking provision in the city centre for those that need it;

·       the plan seeks to encourage visitors to the city to stay longer;

·       the plan links into other strategic documents such as the Big Economic Plan.

The ward member for the central ward welcomed the plan and the prioritisation of public transport and active travel options. It was recognised that some schemes will need to be brought forward ahead of others and that it would be useful to see details of the implementation plan.

It was unanimously resolved that:

a)             The Cabinet approve commencement of consultation in respect of the Draft Hereford City Masterplan; and

b)             To delegate to the Corporate Director Economy and Environment authority to agree minor amendments prior to formal publication of the draft plan, subject to consultation with the Cabinet Member for Infrastructure and transport.