Three leading international businessmen, all based in Herefordshire, have joined the board of Hereford Futures, the company tasked by Herefordshire Council with rejuvenating the entire city.
As unpaid directors, they are expected to bring a wealth of experience and commercial drive to the city’s redevelopment project.
Hereford-born building consultant Doug Barrat, from Allensmore, is a main board director of Ballast plc, an Anglo Dutch construction and engineering group.
Richard Clare, from Longtown, is executive chairman of EC Harris, a consultancy advising companies on getting the best return from their businesses worldwide. He is a former director of Grosvenor Ltd, the Duke of Westminster’s private development company.
Ray Stone, from Monnington, as managing director was responsible for turning round the city’s Special Metals Wiggin factory and is now global development director for parent company, Special Metals Corporation.
He is chairman of the Herefordshire group on Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce.
Jonathan Bretherton, chief executive of Hereford Futures, said: “Gaining the experience of three such high-calibre, locally-based businessmen is a real coup for Hereford Futures.
“Their individual professional skills and international contacts will prove invaluable over the coming years as we build on the city’s many fine qualities by developing its infrastructure, transport systems, affordable housing, retail and leisure facilities and job opportunities.”
The board are tasked with encouraging new enterprises, new and better paid jobs, vibrant communities, better infrastructure and affordable homes.