Flood prevention work underway on new development

Flood prevention work has begun on a project to transform part of a city centre into an "urban village" with up to 400 new homes.

Herefordshire Council said the construction phase of the flood alleviation scheme was underway on land in Merton Meadow in Hereford.

The £2m government-funded scheme will use natural flood management techniques to protect the area and create new wetland areas for public access, alongside providing draining capacity for new homes.

County councillor Graham Biggs, said it was an "exciting milestone" and the flood alleviation works were a "crucial first step" in preparing the site for future development.

"It's a project that brings together flood protection, environmental benefits and the opportunity to deliver much-needed homes in a sustainable way," he said.

The project has the potential to deliver a mix of affordable housing and open-market homes, including provision for NHS staff, teachers and emergency services.

Biggs, cabinet member for economy and growth, added it was about "more than flood protection".

"It's about creating the conditions for a blue-green neighbourhood where people can walk, spend time outdoors and connect with nature, right in the city centre," he added.

The authority said feedback from a public consultation had been used to help shape the design of the flood alleviation scheme and a masterplan for the area, which it would consult on in the summer.

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