A LEADING architect who has revived public spaces throughout Europe is bringing his expertise to Hereford.

Ben Hamilton-Baillie is promising a “fresh approach” to the Edgar Street Grid (ESG) scheme.

The Bristol-based planner is an expert on street design and has worked on projects in London, Holland and the USA.

His work included the restoration of Dublin’s busiest road, O’Connell Street, and regeneration in King’s Cross, London.

The expert – who studied at Harvard – has been appointed by developers Stanhope to re-evaluate parts of the retail quarter.

The aim is to create a better link between the £200 million development and the Maylord shopping centre.

Roy England, chief executive of Maylord owners, the DRE Group, criticised the plans in May, saying they could have a detrimental effect on the existing shopping centre.

Mr Hamilton-Baillie has yet to see the plans in detail, but is well-qualified to offer help.

“It’s about trying to overcome some of the barriers that exist both physically and psychologically,” he said.

“It’s about a fresh approach to street design and to traffic and pedestrian interaction.” Mr Hamilton-Baillie’s appointment was confirmed last week by Jonathan Bretherton, chief executive of ESG Herefordshire Ltd. Speaking at the Hereford City Partnership meeting about the DRE’s concerns, he admitted the plans needed tweaking.

“We have to re-plan that part of the city to bring these two parties together,” he said.

“Mr Hamilton-Baillie is a public spaces guru who develops strategies and we’re going to bring him into discussion.” Councillor Mark Hubbard said: “His reputation precedes him. He’s an excellent human-centric town planner and a very respected figure in urban design.”