IMAGINE a city centre where small traders and major retailers thrive, side by side, with good nightlife and where parking problems are a thing of the past.

Hereford city centre is up for regeneration – and Hereford City Partnership (HCP) wants to hear from residents.

Over the last two months, the HCP – consisting of traders, councillors and business figures – has quizzed city figures on how the shopping area could develop.

The findings were revealed at a public meeting in the Town Hall last week.

Now a questionnaire has been released and councillor Adrian Blackshaw is hoping for a good response.

“This is a chance for anyone with an interest in Hereford city centre to have their say,” he said.

According to the HCP, the city has much to commend – a good range of shops, history, fine open spaces and attractions.

But it could fall into decline without addressing its current challenges.

The HCP has six aims, focusing on the traditional shopping area, but including the Edgar Street Grid (ESG) and entry points.

Its dream is a revitalised city centre, and a place to visit, live and enjoy.

The consultation, and the resulting wishlist, could make this dream a reality.

THE SIX AIMS ARE: 1) Create a vibrant city that offers a whole-day experience: More cafes, events.herefordtimes.com/" target= "_blank">events.herefordtimes.com/" target="_blank">events.herefordtimes.com/" target="_blank">events.herefordtimes.com/" target="_blank">events and extended hours could boost the economy, while keeping the city alive.

City centre living could be encouraged by offering incentives to renovate rooms above shops.

2) Beautify the city, making it an attractive retail and tourist destination: The centre’s appearance – architecture, street design, cleanliness – is vital in retaining visitors.

One solution could be a parish plan, being put together by Hereford City Council. This possible blueprint could set out how Herefordians would like to see the city.

3) Regenerating the city through its heritage: The county has a reputation for good produce and, with Hereford at its heart, it could be a haven for foodies. The Buttermarket could be refurbished with a focus on food, while the rural connection could be reflected in street furniture. Preserving shop fronts, better use of the River Wye, and public art could also play a part.

4) Creating a better transport network: A well-used park and ride system could ease congestion, while releasing parking spaces. Other initiatives include an extended cycle network, a park and cycle scheme, and better scooter and wheelchair access.

5) Better marketing and promotion: Traders believe High Town would benefit from a Tourist Information Centre, while campaigns linking attractions, stores and restaurants could improve business.

Better signs and an updated city map in High Town could also help visitors, while a major marketing campaign should drum-up more tourism.

6) More support for businesses, especially independent traders: Hereford is not quite a clone town. It has a high number of independent shops and it’s crucial to retain them. An “Enterprise HQ” could be established to help small businesses, while a new hotel could also help.

What happens next?

Your comments will lead to a document confirming how the city centre should develop. People have until May 28 to complete the questionnaire, available from the Town Hall reception. The form is available to download from the Herefordshire Council’s website at herefordshire.gov.uk