PEDESTRIANISATION of the town has long been thought about by residents of Ross-on-Wye and now a £25,000 feasibility study is looking at the possibility.

This process involves restricting vehicle access to certain areas, allowing for greater foot traffic and enhancing the overall urban environment.

Proponents argue that it can lead to safer, more vibrant public spaces, benefiting local businesses and communities by encouraging people to explore and enjoy their surroundings without the interference of cars. However, the idea often raises concerns about traffic management and access for residents.

Councillor John Winder has expressed his openness to discussing the pedestrianisation feasibility study publicly, raising the question of whether a public meeting should be held to explore the topic further.

The pedestrianisation study, which was approved at the last full Town Council meeting, is set to cost £25,000 of public money. Cllr Winder has stated: "I’m happy to discuss it in public," showing his willingness to engage with the community on the matter.

The concept was first brought up at the July council meeting, where all councillors were invited to contribute ideas for the study. Cllr Winder explained that no other suggestions were put forward, so the pedestrianisation plan progressed.

He shared his view on the matter: "I think there could be some merit into opening up a short length of Broad Street to a wider cross section of the public than can currently use it."

As part of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund allocation, Herefordshire Council identified £25K for each of the five Market Towns in the county to take forward feasibility studies for projects arising from the Market Town Investment Plans, which were developed in 2021/22.

Over the last couple of months Officers have been meeting with town councils, including Ross Town Council, to establish what projects they would like to focus on. The plan is that the members will identify the areas that they wish to focus on and then the council will develop these into tender briefs and manage the procurement for suitable consultants.