£22 million bid for 15 public projects can go ahead

Hereford’s £22 million bid for 15 public projects in the city has been accepted, meaning work on them can now start.

The StrongerHereford board, which has overseen the process, confirmed this morning that the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities had approved the bid.

This means the green light for the two most high-profile projects, the major overhaul of Hereford Museum with a new rooftop terrace, and new city library in the Maylord Orchards centre.

Other work includes improved access to the river and new floating pontoons as part of an ambitious riverside regeneration that includes the redevelopment of the historic pavilion on Castle Green.

Hereford will also be opening pioneering education hubs connected to fast-growing industries like video game design, digital creative skills, and engineering.

The city can also expect a new extreme sports hub, electric buses, and the Southside development of sports pitches, community garden and employability hub.

Chair of the StrongerHereford board Abigail Appleton said: “This is thrilling news is and huge credit to the power of collaboration across our city to inspire and deliver ambitious change.

“There will be more challenges ahead to deliver the plans but with this government green light and all the energy and determination that’s got us this far, I am confident of success.”

Herefordshire Council’s cabinet member for environment and economy Coun Ellie Chowns said: “We are delighted to receive confirmation of this significant funding for investment in our city.

“The delivery of these exciting projects can now get underway, providing an important boost in education, sports, employment and culture, for residents and visitors.”