HEREFORD has to take at least half of the 16,600 homes coming the county’s way by 2026, according to a new draft regional development plan.

Herefordshire Council’s cabinet heard yesterday (Thursday) that the city would need significant investment in infrastructure to cope with the number of homes now expected.

Several members spoke of the need for new development in “remote” rural areas to keep communities alive.

The West Midlands regional spatial strategy, which dictates future development patterns, makes Hereford a key growth area.