A NEW road opened in Hereford this week will lead to greater prosperity, claims a councillor.

Councillor Brian Wilcox believes the road, which links Rotherwas industrial estate to the A49 at Grafton, will be benefical to business and cut congestion.

“This is fantastic news,” said Councillor Brian Wilcox, cabinet member for highways and transportation.

“The new road brings huge benefits to local businesses, residents and commuters.

"With the Rotherwas Futures project it demonstrates the council’s commitment to the area and will undoubtedly be the catalyst for more companies to invest and expand, bringing more new jobs to Rotherwas.”

The council claims the road will bring relief to residents of Holme Lacy Road and means HGVs heading to and from the Rotherwas industrial estate will have easier access onto the A49.

In recent weeks tie-in works have been undertaken to ensure the new road joins effectively with the A49 via a new roundabout.

But the decision to build the road proved to be controversial.

Campaigners questioned the need for it and protested against the possible environmental impact.

More protests followed last year when it was revealed that the Rotherwas Ribbon lay in its path.

An official opening is planned for September.