NEW plans for a Herefordshire town centre have been announced.

Herefordshire Council has revealed that work will now start in January 2024 rather than the winter of this year.

The original plans for Leominster's High Street and Corn Square, announced earlier this year, proved controversial as they initially resulted in the cancellation of the annual Victorian street market and Christmas lights switch-on.

The proposal of pedestrianizing Corn Square also caused some to be concerned about the effect on parking, footfall and deliveries.

Petitions were launched against both the potential pedestrianisation and the cancellation of the Victorian market, with the latter receiving over 300 signatures.

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Under the new plans, Corn Square will be resurfaced but no immediate changes to the parking and traffic arrangements will be made.

High Street, Iron Cross, Victoria Street and Corn Street are set to receive new surfacing, improved paving, wider pavements and raised tables at the major junctions.

Councillor Graham Biggs, cabinet member for economy and growth said: “We’re acutely aware of the pressures faced by small businesses across Herefordshire and where possible we will always seek to minimise the impact of street works especially at peak times such as Christmas.

“I would like to thank Leominster Town Council and all of those involved in delivering this scheme who have worked tirelessly to secure a commitment which will see the proposed street works delayed until January 2024 to allow full access to Leominster town centre throughout the Christmas trading period.

 “Under this administration, the council will always act to support businesses and promote the local economy wherever possible and we will be offering to meet with local businesses to see how we can support their Christmas plans going forwards.”