PEOPLE in Hereford are being asked to give their views on a new £700,000 cycle lane in the city centre.

Herefordshire Council is encouraging locals to take part in a consultation around the details of what it says will be improved measures for cyclists and pedestrians in St Owen Street, Hereford.

An earlier consultation on whether to introduce the contraflow cycle lane "proved that there is strong support" for the proposed scheme, a spokesperson said.

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A contraflow cycle lane means bikes would be heading in the opposite direction to cars, buses and other vehicles along the one-way street.

The St Owen Street cycle contraflow scheme aims to create a safer cycle route from the east of the city, promoting sustainable and active travel, while at the same time improving safety for pedestrians and motorists.

The £700,000 scheme is part of ongoing improvements in Hereford city centre which looks to create a more attractive environment for residents, visitors, shoppers, workers and local businesses, encouraging people into the city and ensuring they have a great experience when they are there.

As part of the work to introduce the scheme, traffic regulation orders (TROs) are required, which in turn requires a statutory consultation.

The changes to the TRO cover the permitting of cyclists to travel in both directions on the one-way street, adjustments to parking, loading and bus stop layouts to incorporate the physical features of the scheme, and the introduction of areas of raised carriageway on St Owen Street.

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Coun John Harrington, cabinet member infrastructure and transport said: "In these difficult times it is more important than ever to support businesses with measures that will promote the economic success of the city.

"The proposed improvements in St Owen Street will hopefully be a boost to our measures to allow people to use alternatives to the car to travel into and through the city.

"Contraflows can decrease journey times for cyclists compared to those travelling by car by providing more direct, safer, travel routes, and can also reduce inappropriate cycling on the pavement.

"We are asking for the views of local people around the specific details of the traffic regulation orders, which are vital components of the street layout that will allow us to implement the scheme in the most effective way."

The consultation starts on 19 May 2022, and runs to 16 June 2022.

People can find full details and take part in the consultation via the Herefordshire Council website.

Alternatively, if you are unable to complete the online form, you can post a written response to: BBLP St Owen St Consultation, Balfour Beatty Living Places, Unit 3 Thorn Business Park, Rotherwas Industrial Estate, Hereford, HR2 6JT.