Hereford transport hub moves forward

Proposals for the creation of a transport hub on land adjacent to Hereford Railway Station have been approved.The project, brought forward by Herefordshire Council, will include the creation of a drive-in/reverse-out bus interchange with capacity for four bus spaces on land between the station building and the Station Medical Centre.This will include the associated erection of an L-shaped external canopy shelter area which incorporates an enclosed ‘hub’ waiting room featuring 30 indoor seats.Also included in the plans is the provision of a bus layover space with capacity for five bus spaces on land to the north west of the Station Medical Centre, currently used as a depot for Network Rail, as well as a drop off area to include parking for six taxi and seven disabled spaces.Improvements will be made to the public realm forecourt area between the station building and the CLR, including the creation of 144 cycle storage spaces, real-time passenger information boards, Beryl Bike stands, seating areas, public space, rain gardens and landscaping.A report drawn up for the council’s planning committee – which met on 1 May – said: “The scheme is generally considered to be well conceived, with any potential for material impacts being managed or mitigated to acceptable levels.”Whilst some adverse comments have been received from other parties and residents, it is not considered that these raise any material planning issues which would warrant permission being refused.”Members voted to approve the scheme, subject to conditions.