Mike Truelove (Chief Executive of Hereford BID) has shared his concerns about possible shop closures if plans released by Herefordshire Council for Broad Street, the Cathedral area and near the River Wye get the go-ahead.
With pedestrians and cyclists given priority over motorists and parking spaces removed in Broad Street, there is concern that many people, especially those with disabilities, may choose to simply stay away from the city centre.
Mike Truelove (Chief Executive at Hereford BID) said:
“It is not that businesses are ungrateful for the recently unveiled vision for Broad, Bridge and King Street – in fact, the hospitality sector (in particular) are delighted that there could be extended paving for a café culture.
“As for more trees in the ground, what’s not to like?
“However, what truly worries many is that if you are a retailer, pharmacist, sandwich shop, florist, or estate agent, how are their customers going to pop in to grab items and then go if the parking is down the road? Yes, you may well argue (justifiably in some cases) that people ought to park in larger car parks and not on the street, but that ignores those who struggle to walk far and those who, dare I say it, pop into these shops because it is convenient.
“Take away the parking and you remove a major reason to shop here which equates to shop closures. Suddenly, once popular streets become a hopscotch of empty units; it is as simple as that.
“If we are serious about improving the area, everyone needs to be taken on the journey and not leave behind those who have been there for (in some instances over 100 years) and have evolved around the ability to park outside. There must be a compromise.
“It would also be useful if there was a parallel or even leading plan to improve parking and transport in the city. Where is the vision for new multi-storey car parks?
“Further, High Town and St Peter Street have been discussed for the last 6 years with millions ready to use from the LEP and match-funded by Herefordshire Council. If projects that have funding cannot be implemented, what hope do we have for Broad Street?
“One last final point, it is critical that the whole of the city centre is looked at as part of a masterplan – we need streets that flow into each other with a common theme or ‘brand’ (think of those ugly stainless steels benches in Eign Gate that were recently taken down). Either way, I encourage you to air your views whilst the online consultation is open: https://lnkd.in/eVjNqcE6”
From Herefordshire Council:
As part of a wider masterplanning exercise for the city centre, changes are being proposed for the layout and use of the streets and public spaces in the historic core of Hereford. This includes the area around the Cathedral and the River Wye and is primarily focussed upon Broad Street, King Street, Bridge Street, and Eign Gate in the first instance.
More information relating to proposed changes to Aubrey Street, Berrington Street, West Street and East Street will be explored as a second phase.
The improvements aim to create an attractive, vibrant city centre to help support existing businesses and encourage people to stay longer when they visit, helping to boost the local economy. The concept designs give more space for pedestrians and cyclists, with a new layout and design that gives motor vehicles reduced priority.
There are areas for small events, activities and street dining with lots of attractive seating and planting. The unique character and history of the area is a key consideration in the concept designs, along with making the area safe and enjoyable for all users.
More Details – https://cathedralriverwyequarter.co.uk
