When Widemarsh Street kerbs will be ripped up as public get a sorry

The kerbs, which have be the cause of several trips and falls since being installed in 2011, will be replaced in a 16-week project from February.

Work will include the removal of the current 50mm kerb by lifting and replacing the road surface, with new channel blocks and drainage system.

The existing street design was completed in 2011 and has been subject to several specialist design and safety reviews.

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Widemarsh Street kerbs will soon be removed. (Image: Rob Davies)

All of these have concluded that the scheme is fully in line with design guidance and best practice.

But the public have continued to lobby local councillors as well as the cabinet member regarding incidents personal to them.

"This will be expensive but it is a cost we are certain we must pay to ensure this street scheme is what the visitors and residents of Herefordshire deserve," said Coun Harrington, Herefordshire Council's roads chief.

"I am only sorry that it has taken so long to address".

A cabinet member decision made last year ensured that a budget to enhance Widemarsh Street was included in the Hereford City Centre Improvement programme.

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Councillor John Harrington, cabinet member infrastructure and transport, said Widemarsh Street was built with the best of intentions with the aim of promoting pedestrian safety.

"But it is our opinion as an administration, that unfortunately and undeniably, the design has caused difficulties for some pedestrians, and this is something we were keen to remedy," he said.

"Widemarsh St is a key part of the city centre, being a popular route for pedestrians and vehicles, home to many shops and businesses, and providing an important link between Old Market and High Town.

"It is a central component of our transport network and economy, along with the status and appeal of Hereford as a visitor destination and place for local people to enjoy their leisure time.

"As such it is important that we listen to feedback from the public to make it as safe as possible."

Hereford City Council explored a wide variety of options, with emphasis on aesthetics, safety, ease of use, drainage, and cost, but removing the kerb appeared to be the only option, he said.