A Continental-style boulevard is the latest proposal put forward by developers behind Hereford’s Edgar Street Grid retail project.
Plans for the route, which will run along Blueschool Street and Newmarket Street, were unveiled to the public at the Shire Hall in Hereford on Monday.
The idea behind the boulevard is one of ‘shared space’ which aims to improve traffic flow and provide a seamless footway to the new development by accommodating both cars and pedestrians.
Two-way traffic will use the new boulevard while pedestrians will be able to use one of four controlled crossings along the route.
It will also provide space for improved public transport services such as buses and taxis while Commercial Square and the Widemarsh Junction will undergo significant redesigns.
Alistair Shaw of developers Stanhope said: “Stanhope has always believed that the long term success of the redevelopment of the former livestock market will depend on it being complementary to Hereford’s existing retail offer.
“For the two elements to work together successfully it is vital that the ESG site is well connected to Hereford’s existing retail offer, which is why the redesign of New Market Street and Blue School Street is so integral to the project.
“However, it is important that we get the connectivity right, and some of the top international streetscape designers have worked on the road project, seeking inspiration from similar schemes in the UK and around Europe, and at Stanhope we are confident that when completed Hereford’s new boulevard will rank amongst the best.”
Funding for the project will be provided by developers Stanhope and subject to planning approval it could be completed by 2013.
The concept plans were drawn up by internationally-renowned urban designer Ben Hamilton-Baillie, who worked with Kelvin Campbell and his team at Urban Initiatives. The design teamtook inspiration from a similar scheme operating in Aachen in Germany.
It is hoped that much of the cross-city traffic flow will be eased by the construction of a new link road which will join Edgar Street with Commercial Road.
ESG chief executive Jonathan Bretherton said the present link road presents a ‘nightmare’ to motorists.
He said: “This stretch of road right through the centre of the city has long been a nightmare for motorists and pedestrians alike.
“Now, as part of the ESG plan to improve connectivity, we can look forward to sharing the space in harmony. These are proposals I am sure everyone will welcome.”
Herefordshire Council leader Councillor Roger Phillips said: “The inner ring road is well past its sell-by date. It slices through the city centre and adds to our traffic woes. Its transformation will make Hereford a better, easier and calmer place for shoppers and tourists to visit.”
The plans can be viewed at www.esgherefordshire.co.uk, at the ESG Info Centre in the Buttermarket or alternatively at libraries throughout the county.
Members of the public can submit their comments on the scheme by emailing enquiries@esgherefordshire.co.uk or by writing to ESG Herefordshire Ltd, 4 Blackfriars Street, Hereford, HR4 9HS.
