Press release from Herefordshire Council:
Residents, visitors, organisations and businesses are being asked what they would like to see in the regeneration of Merton Meadow, Hereford.
A consultation is underway to gather thoughts and views to help inform the design of a new urban village that is set to transform the Merton Meadow area in the north of the city.
An innovative new wetland scheme is already planned to address flooding in the area, allowing new plants and wildlife to flourish in the city, for all to enjoy. The first of its kind in the UK, the wetland flood alleviation scheme, which is being funded by a £2 million grant from central government, is currently going through the planning process. The proposed scheme, which would roughly be the size of three football pitches, works with nature to address flooding using a series of ponds and wetlands connected by water channels to mitigate high rainfall events. New wetland habitats will be created for wildlife, with boardwalks and public spaces.
Addressing the flooding issues will unlock the area for future development and drainage capacity for up to 400 new homes. The new urban village is set to be a pioneering example of an environmentally led and sustainable community.
Thoughts and views are now being sought to help inform what the new neighbourhood looks like, and the types of homes, community facilities and amenities that should be included.
The public consultation is starting on Thursday 17 July, with drop-in sessions at Maylord Orchards centre (ground floor, Unit 51), Hereford, 12-8pm. Attendees are encouraged to book a timeslot via Eventbrite to make sure there are enough members of staff available to provide information and answer questions. You can book at: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/merton-urban-village-development-strategy-public-consultation-tickets-1469564510009?aff=oddtdtcreator
The consultation will then run online on the council website from 18 July until 31 August 2025.
Engagement sessions are also being held with local stakeholder organisations and businesses.
Cllr Graham Biggs, Cabinet Member for Economy and Growth said: “We are looking to create an exciting new environmentally sustainable neighbourhood close to Hereford city centre. There is still a long way to go before any firm ideas for the regeneration of the area are developed, however we need the input of residents, visitors, organisations and businesses at this early stage to ensure the design inspires a sense of community and belonging while having excellent amenities.
“This is an excellent opportunity to develop the low cost and affordable housing needed for local people and key worker accommodation to support our public services. With improved connectivity with the city centre and public open spaces the area is ideal for multi-generational living. I would encourage everyone, whether a local resident or visitor to Hereford, to share their thoughts and views on what this should look like and what’s needed for this pioneering new development.”
A design team, led by Buttress Architects Limited, are delivering the design and consultancy services for the flood alleviation scheme and the area’s regeneration. This first phase of the consultation process will help inform Buttress’ architectural designs for the new urban village, with initial proposals due to be considered this autumn.
