Hereford Voice

Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service and West Mercia Police attended a fire on the field behind Vernon's Williams Close in Newton Farm, Hereford last night. There have been a number of similar incidents which Hereford Cops (SNT) are monitoring and all have been very dangerous. If you have any information regarding this, please contact 101.

TV’s Time Team star Sir Tony Robinson has shown his support for our campaign to bring the hoard home to Herefordshire. As well as playing Baldrick in the television series Blackadder, and presenting Around the World by Train, Sir Tony is an amateur historian and archaeologist with a keen interest in Anglo Saxon England. Learning about our campaign to bring the hoard home to Herefordshire, Sir Tony says: “I’ve always been fascinated by Alfred the Great and his battles alongside his Mercian allies against the great Viking Army. The Herefordshire Hoard offers a fantastic insight into this world and even gives us solid evidence about a previously unrecognised alliance between Alfred and the King of Mercia. It’s a hoard of national importance and should certainly have pride of place in Hereford Museum.” Sir Tony’s support is backed up by Herefordshire’s Lord-Lieutenant’s. Edward Harley, OBE, says: "I am delighted to offer support to this very significant campaign to bring the Herefordshire Hoard back to the county. “The hoard is the single most important archaeological find from the county in half a century, and is of national significance, rewriting our understanding of history at a time when the English nation was forming from a number of separate kingdoms into a unified country. “The beauty and rarity of the objects alone are culturally valuable and the hoard tells us so much about society during the Anglo-Saxon and Viking period. The fundraising campaign to acquire this treasure, to give the people of the county and the whole country, the chance to see it publicly displayed in our beautiful city of Hereford, is an aspiration I wholeheartedly support." Upcoming events The Herefordshire Hoard roadshow storms into Leominster Community Centre on Saturday 2 July. Be there between 11-3pm to see costumed re-enactors who have some old tales to tell about life as a Viking. The next time to see items from the Herefordshire Hoard at the Museum Resource and Learning Centre is between 10.30-3.30pm on Wednesday 6 July. There is no need to book onto this free event – simply turn up at Hereford’s Friars Street venue to feast your eyes on the treasure. Meanwhile, an illustrated lecture by Herefordshire archaeologist, Peter Reavill, takes place at the same venue between 10-12pm, Thursday 21 July. For details of other events, and to keep up-to-date with all hoard-related news, visit the official website.

A government minister has rejected the council's bid to gain special protection for the polluted River Wye. Herefordshire councillors voted to back bringing in a water protection zone (WPZ), which would place tighter restrictions on pollution sources. But Rebecca Pow said it would lead to extra regulatory burdens compared "to businesses in other areas". The river has had excessive algae growth often caused by high phosphate levels in the water. In January, a full meeting of councillors voted unanimously to back bringing in a WPZ for the Wye catchment, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said. It is a measure which would place tighter restrictions on farms and other pollution sources, but which only a government minister can implement. Council leader David Hitchiner then wrote to Ms Pow, minister for nature recovery and the domestic environment, urging her to bring in the measure, given that "existing regulatory arrangements are insufficient" to deal with the pollution problem. He said farmers in the county "on the leading edge of farming innovation… would have little to fear from a WPZ as they are doing the right thing anyway". Ms Pow met Mr Hitchiner and other senior figures at the river shortly afterwards, but she warned at the time that such a zone "would be another tier of regulation". Now in a letter, which has been published among papers for Wednesday's Wye Catchment Nutrient Management Board meeting, the minister has written back to say a WPZ "would impose new and distinct regulatory obligations on the farmers and businesses within the catchment". This "would lead to additional regulatory burdens in comparison to businesses in other areas of the country", she said. The council has been invited to comment by the BBC. Herefordshire Council has attempted to gain special protection for the River Wye, which is seen here (below) from Symonds Yat Rock. Source | BBC

To commemorate the 40th Anniversary of the Falklands War and to celebrate Armed Forces Week, the Mayor of Hereford Mark Dykes was invited by Rear Admiral Wilcox to host a lunch for forces veterans at Hereford Town Hall. The 40th Anniversary of Falklands was particularly special to the City of Hereford, as during the conflict the City adopted the HMS Antelope, a frigate of the Royal Navy that was sunk by Argentine aircraft. 255 men died during the Falklands War, with 28 of those having their roots in Herefordshire. On Sunday 19th June, Hereford was honoured to receive both the Captain and the crew of HMS Antelope, along with many other armed forces veterans, including members of the SAS. Of those in attendance was also General Sir Michael Rose KCB, CBE, DSO, QGM, and many other high-ranking personnel. The Mayor of Hereford Mark Dykes, also an armed forces veteran, was delighted to have been presented with a shield from the SAS 22 Regiment, which will be displayed in Hereford Town Hall. The HMS Antelope, adopted by the City of Hereford, was sunk by Argentine ordinance explosives. Attacked by aircraft, the Antelope was struck by bombs which failed to explode, and though attempts were made to disarm these devices, the bomb ultimately exploded and the order was given to abandon the vessel. Two servicemen perished due to the attack, while the remaining 41 survived. It was an honour to commemorate the brave efforts of those who have served our Country and celebrate those who still serve. We also remember the fallen, who fell in the line of duty and paid the ultimate sacrifice. Lest we forget. The Royal British Legion have created a message board for those wishing to pay a tribute and honour the lives and sacrifices made at https://www.britishlegion.org.uk/get-involved/ways-to-give/poppy-press/your-falklands-messages If you need support or someone to talk to locally, please contact Herefordshire Veteran Support Centre (https://herefordshire-vsc.org) on 01432 260656 or the Herefordshire Mental Health 24 hour helpline on 0808 196 9127. Source | Hereford City Council

Originally this was our 2022 April fools prank on our Facebook page, nut we had a huge response! So seriously would you like to see something like this come to Hereford? They had an event in Gloucester city centre a few years ago, see here 👉 https://bit.ly/3J0DMHB Let us know your thoughts..

📣 Weeds! | Now you see me 👀 ~ Now you don't... 🫣 Now you see me.. Now you don't.. Following on from topic here and our Facebook 'Weeds' article 👉 https://bit.ly/3tQoxfJ It appears that the bush has finally been removed!! The positive power of social media 💪 One down, a few more thousand to go 🙄

On the seventh anniversary of his death detectives investigating the murder of Christian Bagley are making a direct appeal to a potential witness, an Audi driver, to contact the investigation team. Christian, who was 30 years old, was stabbed as he walked under the Hunderton Bridge in Hereford on Father’s Day, Sunday 21st June 2015. At the time a murder investigation was launched and so far several people have been arrested and released without charge but officers have not given up the search for his killer. As enquiries continue, officers are keen to speak to the driver of a dark-toned Audi A4 Avant B8 model, manufactured between 2008 and 2016. The vehicle was seen driving between Sainsbury’s and ASDA between 10.37pm and 10:50pm on the night of Christian’s murder. Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Inspector Leighton Harding, who is leading the investigation, said: “It has been seven years since Christian was fatally stabbed in Hereford and during this time we have continued to investigate his murder. “However, despite our investigation making significant progress and several people arrested, to date, no-one has yet been brought to justice for his murder. I am absolutely committed to ensuring Christian’s family find out what happened to him on that fateful night and to bring those responsible for his murder to justice, which is why I’m making a further direct appeal today. “We have viewed hours and hours of CCTV footage and have identified a vehicle that was seen travelling between Sainsbury’s and ASDA stores in Hereford between 10:37pm and 10:50pm on the night of Christian’s murder. The vehicle is believed to be a dark-toned Audi A4 Avant B8 model, manufactured between 2008 and 2016. “At 10:37pm the vehicle travels along Eign Street from the direction of the A49 Victoria Street towards Sainsbury’s at Barton Place. The vehicle leaves shortly after and is seen again driving on and off the forecourt of nearby Shell Service Station at Whitecross Road. The vehicle travels back along Eign Street towards the A49 Victoria Street and is next seen again at 10:47pm pulling up on the main car park at ASDA, Belmont Road. Y2Mate.is - Op Concrete murder of Christian Bagley, Hereford in 2015 CCTV footage-Q7P-BF7iM8E-720p-1655796277571.mp4 “The male driver got out of the car and approached the entrance of the store, which was closed at that time. He is believed to have seen another person walking near to the store, who he may have spoken to briefly before returning to the vehicle and leaving. “I want the driver of this vehicle to contact us or Crimestoppers as he may have significant information that could assist the investigation. I would like to offer my assurances to the driver that I do not in any way believe they were involved in Christian’s murder but may be a key witness and have information that can help with our investigation. “I recognise that the passage of time presents difficulties for people being able to remember where they were and what they were doing, however, I hope that by releasing details of the Audi, CCTV footage of the movements and description of the driver’s activities at ASDA will help trigger their memory and cause them to contact the investigation team”. To coincide with the anniversary of Christian’s murder Crimestoppers are offering a £20,000 reward. DCI Harding added: “I know there will be people with information about Christian’s murder and understand they may not want to speak to police. If you have information about Christian’s murder please pass this on to Crimestoppers. “Crimestoppers is an independent charity, separate from police, and is 100% anonymous. Police will never know the identity of anyone who contacts Crimestoppers. “If the information provided to Crimestoppers leads to the arrest and conviction of Christian’s killer you could be eligible for a £20,000 reward.” To provide information to the police, dial 101 quoting incident 717s of 21 June 2015. Alternatively, you can submit information online via the Police Major Incident Public Reporting Site, otherwise known as the MIPP (access here: Public Reporting Site). This is a direct line into detectives investigating the murder.

West Mercia Police are calling for help after a body was found in the River Wye, near to Greyfriars Avenue in Hereford on Saturday morning. The body has been identified as 69-year-old Christopher Cooper. He was last seen near The Black Lion pub on Bridge Street at around 9pm on Friday. He was 5’10” - 6’0” tall, slim build, short brown greying hair and was wearing a navy jumper, black jeans, black trainers & baseball cap. Anyone who saw Christopher from 9pm on Friday - 10am on Saturday is asked to contact Hereford Cops via 101 quoting incident 220i of 18 June.

What's On | 🏴‍☠️ Pirate Themed Wye Float 🏴‍☠️ 15% OFF for our Hereford Voice followers We have teamed up with our lovely friends at Wye Float for another fabulous event this year - 13th August 2022 10:00 till late. Music Inflatable River Floats Live Bands Pirates Camping Families Welcome Fancy Dress Food, Drink and much much more.. Tickets www.wyefloat.com 15% OFF using code: Hereford Voice

Tenants will soon have a legal right to keep pets in rented homes, forcing landlords to house four-legged companions in their rental properties. The new rules included in the 'Renters Reform Bill' white paper published this week, will also abolish so-called “no fault” Section 21 evictions. Details from the 'Department of Levelling up Housing and Communities' 👇 Fairer private rented sector white paper to ensure improvements to the rights and conditions for millions of renters. New blueprint for renters reform will end the injustice of unfit homes and help protect renters from rising cost of living We will ban section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions and extend the Decent Homes Standard to the sector We will end arbitrary rent review clauses, give tenants stronger powers to challenge poor practice, unjustified rent increases and enable them to be repaid rent for non-decent homes It will be illegal for landlords or agents to have blanket bans on renting to families with children or those in receipt of benefits We will make it easier for tenants to share their homes with much-loved pets The fairer private rented sector white paper published today (16 June 2022) will ensure millions of families benefit from living in decent, well looked-after homes as part of the biggest shake up of the private rented sector in 30 years. The white paper marks a generational shift that will redress the balance between landlords and 4.4 million private rented tenants. It provides new support for cost of living pressures with protections for the most vulnerable, and new measures to tackle arbitrary and unfair rent increases. This is part of a wider reform agenda to improve lives and level up the country, delivering more housing and greater protections for tenants and homeowners. The majority of tenants enjoy safe and secure rentals, but for the 21% of private renter and households who currently live in unfit homes, this ‘New Deal’ will extend the Decent Homes Standard to the private sector for the first time, levelling up opportunities. This means homes must be free from serious health and safety hazards, and landlords must keep homes in a good state of repair so renters have clean, appropriate and useable facilities. So-called ‘no fault’ section 21 evictions – that allow landlords to terminate tenancies without giving any reason – will be outlawed. More than a fifth of private renters who moved in 2019 and 2020 did not end their tenancy by choice, including 8% who were asked to leave by their landlord. Measures published today also include: Helping the most vulnerable by outlawing blanket bans on renting to families with children or those in receipt of benefits For the first time, ending the use of arbitrary rent review clauses, restricting tribunals from hiking up rent and enabling tenants to be repaid rent for non-decent homes. This will make sure tenants can take their landlord to court to seek repayment of rent if their homes are of unacceptable standard Making it easier for tenants to have much-loved pets in their homes by giving all tenants the right to request a pet in their house, which the landlord must consider and cannot unreasonably refuse All tenants to be moved onto a single system of periodic tenancies, meaning they can leave poor quality housing without remaining liable for the rent or move more easily when their circumstances change. A tenancy will only end if a tenant ends or a landlord has a valid reason, defined in law Doubling notice periods for rent increases and giving tenants stronger powers to challenge them if they are unjustified Giving councils stronger powers to tackle the worst offenders, backed by enforcement pilots, and increasing fines for serious offences In addition, the estimated 2.3 million private landlords will have greater clarity and support through the following measures: A new 'Private Renters’ Ombudsman will be created to enable disputes between private renters and landlords to be settled quickly, at low cost, and without going to court Ensuring responsible landlords can gain possession of their properties efficiently from anti-social tenants and can sell their properties when they need to Introducing a new property portal that will provide a single front door to help landlords to understand, and comply with, their responsibilities as well as giving councils and tenants the information they need to tackle rogue operators These reforms will help to ease the cost of living pressures renters are facing, saving families from unnecessarily moving from one privately rented home to another hundreds of pounds in moving costs. We have already taken significant action over the past decade to improve private renting, including reducing the proportion of non-decent private rented homes from 37% to 21%, capping tenancy deposits and banning tenancy fees for tenancy agreements signed after 1 June 2019, and introducing pandemic emergency measures to ban bailiff evictions. Today’s measures will form part of the Renters Reform Bill as announced in the Queen’s Speech, to be introduced in this parliamentary session. This will deliver on our commitment to give renters a better deal and make the private rented sector fit for the 21st century with safer, more secure and higher quality homes. Levelling Up and Housing Secretary Michael Gove said: For too long many private renters have been at the mercy of unscrupulous landlords who fail to repair homes and let families live in damp, unsafe and cold properties, with the threat of unfair ‘no fault’ evictions orders hanging over them. Our New Deal for renters will help to end this injustice by improving the rights and conditions for millions of renters as we level up across the country and deliver on the people’s priorities. While the majority of private rented homes are of good quality, offering safe, comfortable accommodation for families, the conditions of more than half a million properties – or 12% of households – pose an imminent risk to tenants’ health and safety, meaning around 1.6 million people are living in dangerously low-quality homes, driving up costs for our health service. The sector offers the most expensive, least secure, and lowest quality housing to millions of renters, including 1.3 million households with children and 382,000 households over 65. Rents are also rising at their fastest level for 5 years. This can damage life chances and hold back some of the most deprived parts of the country. Today’s move marks the latest phase in delivering on the government’s levelling up missions, taking serious steps to halve the number of poor-quality rented homes, across both private and social tenures, by 2030. Last week the government introduced the Social Housing Regulation Bill which means failing social housing landlords could face unlimited fines and Ofsted-style inspections. In a major reset of power between tenants and landlords, residents will be able to demand information and rate their landlord as part of new satisfaction measures. Taken together with today’s renters reform white paper, the Bill will form a key part of the government’s mission to level up across the country and deliver on the people’s priorities.

This is the first of three new moss filters being installed in the Hereford. Moss is one of nature’s best air filters. Moss has the natural ability to absorb and metabolise fine dust and particles, helping to naturally clean the air we breathe. Moss also stores and evaporates large amounts of moisture which cools the air. Also known as ‘city trees’ the moss filters each take up about the same amount of space as one tree, however due to the enormous surface area of moss the moss filter is more efficient at filtering and cooling the air around it. The innovative moss filters have been funded jointly by the council and Marches LEP as part of the ongoing £6m Hereford City Centre Improvement project, which is enhancing the City Centre environment thanks to investment to encourage people to spend more time in the City when they visit, helping to boost the local economy. Moss mats clean about 80% of fine dust and particles from the air, and using ventilation technology filters breathing air for up to 7,000 people per hour. The moss filters will be located in busy traffic areas in the City where they will use specially selected mosses to help naturally absorb pollution from the air. The first is being installed at Eign Gate. The moss filters contain integrated smart sensors which provide performance and condition information, so the impact on the local air quality will be available for all to see on the council’s website. Cllr John Harrington, Cabinet member infrastructure and transport, said: “I am really pleased that we are bringing moss filters to Hereford. This innovative technology provides us with another small but significant step towards cleaner area in the City, which is important for everyone.” “We are working hard in a number of ways to reduce emissions from vehicles in our beautiful, historic City with the aim of cleaner, healthier air for visitors but that takes time. Nature is lending us a helping hand towards this in the meantime. In London in Waltham Forest and in the City of Cork in Ireland, these moss towers have already been working hard filtering the low hanging pollution we have to deal with every day. “Moss works differently to trees. Like trees, moss is great at converting carbon dioxide into oxygen, however moss also actually absorbs pollution particles from the air – metabolising and converting them into natural and harmless biomass. The particles it cannot use are bound in the sediment of the moss. And with their excellent moisture storing ability, the moss filters also work more efficiently to cool the air around them. “I understand one moss filter captures carbon dioxide equivalent to 28 beech trees and cools the air around it like three mature winter lime trees. While trees are also playing an important role in our efforts to improve air quality across the City, the moss filters provide a boost in busy traffic areas where there is higher pollution but little space.” The first moss filters are being installed in the same week as Clean Air Day, the UK’s largest air pollution campaign, which this year is on Thursday 16 June. Air pollution causes heart and lung disease and results in over 36,000 people in the UK dying each year. Clean air is essential for our health, and clean air measures are good for our wellbeing as well as being good for the planet. For more about Clean Air Day, see www.actionforcleanair.org.uk

Here are some photographs that we have taken to highlight just how bad and BIG these weeds have become along the Belmont Road (A465) in Hereford. The weed on the traffic lights junction just before the Asda garage is that big it is now more of a bush but clearly blocks the view for motorists and has now become more of a hazard. The Belmont Road as we all know, is one of the busiest roads into Hereford and this is what people visiting our city first see... At Hereford Voice we constantly focus on being 'Positive' about our beautiful city however, it becomes more challenging for us when weeds like this remain completely untouched for years with no sign of them being removed. There are plenty of overgrown weeds throughout the city, so come on Herefordshire Council can we please have more pride in our lovely city of Hereford..

Kevin Hill of Tarbock Road, Speke, Liverpool has been jailed for supplying cocaine and possessing offensive weapons. The 48-year-old from Liverpool was sentenced yesterday (Monday 13 June) at Worcester Crown Court. He was sentenced to nine years in prison. An investigation by West Mercia Police with support from Merseyside Police found that between May 2021 and February 2022 Hill led a Liverpool based group responsible for the distribution of wholesale amounts of cocaine into Herefordshire. Kevin Hill took over this enterprise from his twin brother, Keith Hill of Ridgemoor Road, Leominster, who is himself serving a nine year jail sentence after being sentenced at Worcester Crown Court in August 2021. Both individuals were at the pinnacle of this offending organisation. It is conservatively estimated that he distributed in excess of a kilo of cocaine, however in reality the figures involved are likely to be more significant. The police operation gathered significant mobile phone evidence which implicated Hill on a large scale. He pleaded guilty and received a reduced sentence. Initially Hill had said that he was a dog breeder and received payments marked up for the sale of XL Bully dogs, this was easily disproven. Evidence was gathered that demonstrated Hill had a number of contacts in and around Herefordshire, who were themselves dealers in their own right, this included 23 year old Callum Smith of Princess Avenue, Hereford who was sentenced to six years seven months and 32 year old Nathaniel Singleton of Mortimer Street, Leominster, who was sentenced to 33 months. On 13 October 2021 Nathaniel Singleton was arrested and found in possession of £24,000 of cocaine. On 19 January 2022 Callum Smith was arrested and found in possession of several hundred pounds worth of cocaine. These drugs were supplied by Kevin Hill. Detective Sergeant Jamie Bullock said: “People involved in this line of work should be mindful that at no point did we seize drugs or money from Kevin Hill. Those in a similar position should use this sentence as a warning that they could be next. “Anyone with any concerns about potential drug crime is urged to get in touch. We act on all reports we receive.” You can call 101 or visit https://www.westmercia.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/

At approximately 3pm on Friday the 10th of June Hereford Cathedral had a window smashed. This is the second incident that's happened in 10 days. If anyone has witnessed anything regarding this or if you have any information please contact the Police on 101 quoting this reference-22/57628/22. Any information will be greatly appreciated. 40508

The first piece of artwork is already displayed at the Railway Station end of Hereford College of Arts and NMiTE’s new student accommodation but will be officially launched on 15 June. From June 2022 to April 2023 German artist Lothar Götz will transform the area around No. 1 Station Approach next to Hereford Railway Station. Götz will make two monumental and vibrant geometric artworks that will be displayed on each end of Hereford College of Arts (HCA) and NMiTE’s new student accommodation. A number of dazzling flags designed by the artist will also be sited by No. 1 Station Approach. The artworks will mark the start of a new cultural gateway to Hereford, welcoming visitors and enriching residents’ experience of the city. UK-based Götz’s intervention will be the first of four new bold commissions of public artwork at the site over four years. The No. 1 Station Approach installation is one of fourteen projects in Hereford that have been made possible thanks to a successful £22.4million funding bid to the Stronger Towns Fund. Abigail Appleton Principal of Hereford College of Arts and #StrongerHereford Chair said: “Public art is a wonderful way to signal and celebrate the present and future creativity of our city. I am thrilled that we are kicking off the delivery of Hereford’s visionary Town Investment Plan with a work of such boldness and vibrancy.” #StrongerHereford Board member Lauren Rogers said: “I believe having such eye-catching public art in prominent place – a gateway into city – is inspirational, hopefully sparking creativity and more contemporary public art. Art helps us reflect on who we are and who we want to be. I am incredibly proud that Hereford towns Fund bid has been able to support this work.” An associated engagement programme will reach out to residents, visitors, students, artists as well as the wider community to stimulate debate and showcase Hereford as a cultural destination. Anne de Charmant, Artistic Director of Meadow Arts said: “Having Lothar Götz’s intervention to launch the Cultural Gateway commissions is a great honour and a wonderful opportunity for Hereford.” Götz’s work, typically large-scale paintings, drawings and installations that respond to existing structures have included commissions for South Bank Centre, London (2014); Leeds Art Gallery (2017) and most recently the Towner Art Gallery in Eastbourne (2019) to much acclaim. He is a master in the use of colours, and it is appropriate that his work, which celebrates the great Modernist tradition of the Bauhaus, the influential 1920-30s German art school, should be displayed on a building that hosts art students. The artworks will be officially launched on Wednesday 15 June including a talk with the artist at Hereford College of Arts’ College Road Campus. Free tickets can be booked via the Meadow Arts website.

Beryl has welcomed the latest announcement from the Government on the future of e-scooter legislation – which could see e-scooters become legal on the UK’s roads. The Government said that the Transport Bill, which was announced during the Queen’s Speech, will help them take the steps they need to make e-scooters safer and they will now consider how best to design future regulations. While riding a privately owned e-scooter on public land is currently illegal, there are a number of Department for Transport-sponsored trials including the Beryl trials in some cities in the UK. These were sanctioned to help the DfT to better understand the benefits of properly regulated, safety-tested e-scooters and their impact on public space. Currently, e-scooters sold for private use are unregulated and can only be used legally on private land with the landowner’s permission. Have you ever used E-Scooters?

Huge congratulations to The Royal National College for the Blind (RNC) football team on winning the FA Disability Cup final today on penalties but also commiserations Brighton for playing such a great game. Fabulous televised coverage from BT Sport, thank you for broadcasting these wonderful matches. Congratulations RNC!

♻️ Below shows us what we can and cannot recycle ♻️

The restaurant temporarily closed for the scheduled work to take place at the end of May and reopened their doors earlier today. There is a new car park layout with repainted lines, separate entrance for delivery drivers from Just Eat, Uber Eats and Deliveroo etc.. New touch screens and collection point, with fresh contemporary but subtle decor in the restaurant with new tables and chairs.

Asda object to Lidl planning application at the Three Counties Hotel on Belmont Road Hereford. Jigsaw planning wrote a letter on behalf of Asda Stores Limited to object to the planning application (P221090/O) submitted to Herefordshire Council. This objection is based on two main points, which are discussed in more detail below, and are summarised as follows: Loss of Community Facilities Retail Impact Loss of Trees Loss of Community Facilities The proposed development will see the demolition of the Three Counties Hotel which is a trading business. The applicants Planning Statement references policies from the Herefordshire Local Plan Core Strategy at section 5.8 onwards. One policy it refers to is Policy SCI which relates to social and community facilities. The Planning Statement dismisses this policy as not being relevant to the proposal as hotel does not fall within the list of facilities listed in the supporting text. It should be noted that the supporting texts states "social and community facilities can include:" (our emphasis). It does not therefore seek to provide an extensive list of facilities that can be covered by the policy. The hotel's website www.threecountieshotel.co.uk confirms that the hotel has a restaurant, bar and offers weddings as well as providing traditional accommodation. The website confirms that the bar facilities are for "residents and non-residents alike". It is clear from this that the hotel offers facilities for use by the local community through the bar and restaurant as well as hosting weddings and conferences. This is also confirmed by some of the representations to the application which confirm local residents opposition to the loss of the local facility. As such it is considered that the proposal should be assessed against policy SCI. The policy states: 'Policy SCI - Social and community facilities Development proposals which protect, retain or enhance existing social and community infrastructure or ensure that newfacilities are available as locally as possible will be supported. Such proposals should be in or close to settlements, have considered the potential for co-location of facilities and where possible be safely accessible by foot, by cycle and public transport. New development that creates a need for additional social and community facilities that cannot be met through existing social facilities -will be expected to meet the additional requirements through new, or extension of existing, provision or by developer contributions which meet the relevant tests of paragraph 204 of the NPPF. Proposals involving the provision or expansion of social and community facilities will be expected to provide publicly accessible toilets (including facilities for disabled people and baby changing). Existing facilities will be retained, unless it can be demonstrated that an appropriate alternative facility is available, or can be provided to meet the needs of the community affected; or it can be shown that the facility is no longer required, viable or is no longer fit for purpose; and where appropriate, it has been vacant and marketed for community use without success. Viable alternative facilities must be equivalent to those they replace. In terms ofsize, quality and accessibility." There is no information to indicate that the existing facilities are no longer required, viable or fit for purpose. The proposal is therefore contrary to this policy. Retail Impact Planning law requires that applications for planning permission be determined in accordance with the development plan, unless material considerations indicate otherwise. The National Planning Policy Framework 2021 ("NPPF") is a material consideration in planning decisions. NPPF carries a presumption in favour of sustainable development albeit this does not change the statutory status of the development plan as the starting point for decision making. Chapter 7 of the NPPF seeks to ensure the vitality of Town Centres. In terms of retail impact, the applicant suggests that Lidl's trading philosophies differs from a traditional supermarket by selling from a limited core range (compared to other supermarkets) of mainly exclusive own labels. Flowever, whilst this may have been the original philosophy of the 'deep discounter' it is evident that there has been a slow but steady change towards that of a traditional supermarket when considering store size, ranges on offer, proportion of comparison goods, and labelled goods. This would be reflective in the turnover being more akin to that of other foodstore operators. The applicant has overstated the difference between the proposed operator and the existing supermarkets in the area. The proposed will compete with the town centre stores and therefore the Council must set aside the 'discounter' case which the applicant relies so heavily on. The Council need to be content that they are approving a certain level of food retail floorspace which could ultimately be occupied by any retailer. The Council also need to be aware of the new Class E of the Use Classes Order which ultimately means that whilst they are focusing on a retail development, the proposed development could be utilised for other services within Class E. Loss of Trees Policies LDl 'Landscape and Townscape' and LD3 'Green Infrastructure' require development proposals to enhance green infrastructure through the preservation and delivery of new green infrastructure. We note that the Senior Landscape Officer and the Tree Officer both object to the proposal on the grounds that it does not accord with these policies or the aims of the NPPF paragraphs 126 and 130 on high quality design. Asda support the position of these officers. Given the concerns set out above, Asda consider that the application should be refused. We would be grateful if you could provide confirmation of receipt of this representation. 1061956723_RepsObj575846.pdf

Hereford's popular drive-thru restaurant on Belmont Road is currently closed for a substantial refurbishment, which is part of the companies 'Convenience of the Future' project which includes a huge £250M national programme spanning the next 4 years. The last time that this restaurant in South Wye was refurbished was back in January 2018. The drive-thru is scheduled to reopen in June once the work is complete.

Consultation to focus on Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs) in St Owen's Street Herefordshire Council is encouraging local people to take part in a consultation around the details of improved measures for cyclists and pedestrians in St Owen's Street, Hereford. An earlier consultation on whether to introduce the contraflow proved that there is strong support for the proposed scheme. This consultation does not revisit that question but is a necessary next stage in the process where Herefordshire Council is legally required to consult on elements of the scheme. The St Owen's Street cycle contraflow scheme will create a safer cycle route from the east of the city, promoting sustainable and active travel, while at the same time improving safety for pedestrians and motorists. The scheme is part of ongoing improvements in Hereford city centre to create a more attractive environment for residents, visitors, shoppers, workers and local businesses, encouraging people into the city and ensuring they have a great experience when they are there. As part of the work to introduce the scheme, Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs) are required, which in turn requires a statutory consultation. The changes to the TRO cover the permitting of cyclists to travel in both directions on the one-way street, adjustments to parking, loading and bus stop layouts to incorporate the physical features of the scheme, and the introduction of areas of raised carriageway on St Owen's St. Cllr John Harrington, cabinet member infrastructure and transport said: “In these difficult times it is more important than ever to support businesses with measures that will promote the economic success of the city. The proposed improvements in St Owen's Street will hopefully be a boost to our measures to allow people to use alternatives to the car to travel into and through the City. Contraflows can decrease journey times for cyclists compared to those travelling by car by providing more direct, safer, travel routes, and can also reduce inappropriate cycling on the pavement. “We are asking for the views of local people around the specific details of the Traffic Regulation Orders, which are vital components of the street layout that will allow us to implement the scheme in the most effective way.” The consultation starts on 19 May 2022, and runs to 16 June 2022. People can find full details and take part in the consultation via the Herefordshire Council website. Alternatively, if you are unable to complete the online form, you can post a written response to: BBLP St Owen's St Consultation, Balfour Beatty Living Places, Unit 3 Thorn Business Park, Rotherwas Industrial Estate, Hereford, HR2 6JT. Responses to this consultation must be received on or before 16 June 2022. If you require any further information on this scheme, please contact by email: StOwensSt@balfourbeatty.com.

An electrical mechanical engineer employee at the Ross on Wye Laundry firm 'Clean' that was recently destroyed by a devastating fire has just won his dream car and £20,000 cash. Presenter Christian Williams with lucky winner Jonathan Smith Jonathan Smith was shocked when the online competitions company BOTB Presenter Christian Williams surprised Mr Smith with his prize while he was at work. Jonathan won a brand new Ford Mustang and £20,000 in cash all for £2 entry. It is so nice to have a really positive story like this to start the day. More details - https://www.botb.com/winners/mw1722/

Further response to Panorama aired on May 16 from Herefordshire Council Statements from Paul Walker, Daryl Freeman, Cllr David Hitchiner and Cllr Toynbee May 17 Following the Panorama programme broadcast yesterday (Monday 16 May). I’d like to apologise again for the serious failings that have occurred in Herefordshire Children’s Services over many years. As a father, I was upset and saddened to hear of the ways we have let children and families in the county down, and as an incoming Chief Executive I made it my top priority to ensure we make the changes required, so that children and families in Herefordshire get the support they need and are entitled to. We took immediate action to address the serious issues highlighted by last year’s judgment and we are now one year into a three-year improvement plan, recognising that such significant changes take time and investment. We have undertaken a thorough analysis of all aspects of our children’s social care practice, which has informed our decision to significantly invest in Herefordshire Children’s Services. We know that our practice and processes still need improvement in some areas and we are committed to making the changes needed to provide better services for children and families in Herefordshire. Our Social Workers continue to do their best, often in very difficult circumstances, to support families and protect vulnerable children in our community. As we continue on our improvement journey, if you have any concerns about the way you or your family have been treated by Herefordshire Children’s Services, you can contact us at on our careconcerns webpage or or email careconcerns@herefordshire.gov.uk Paul Walker, Chief Executive Each day there are children in Herefordshire who need to be protected, and families who need our support. Alongside other agencies we want to be able to offer the right help at the right time, and families should be able to trust that we will get it right for them Through our improvement activity over the past year we have reduced caseloads for our social workers and now provide better managerial support and supervision. We are working hard to make improvements so that we support all children and young people and their families during their time of need. We will continue to listen to families and ensure our staff have the support they need as we make significant and lasting improvements to Herefordshire Children’s Services. Darryl Freeman, Corporate Director for Children and Young People No words of apology can put right the damage our failings have caused, and I want every resident in the county to know that I am deeply sorry that this council let down families so badly. We now have a new leadership team in place, a three-year improvement plan to deliver real change, and have pledged almost £22million of additional funding for the staff and resources we need to create a service we can all be proud of. We are determined to deliver the best possible outcomes for children and families in Herefordshire. We will be open, transparent and honest with you in reporting the progress we are making on this improvement journey. We know the journey will be far from smooth, but we will not shy away from the challenge. Councillor David Hitchiner Leader, Herefordshire Council I really feel for families who have been let down – it’s very distressing, and it’s crucial that we get things right. I am sorry that mistakes have been made by Herefordshire Council over the years. Some of the issues are long-standing, and I’m pleased we have new people in senior roles who understand the challenges and are building new ways of working. We are now an open, learning council - we encourage staff and families to let us know how they feel and how we can work better together. As well as improving our social work practice, Herefordshire Council is working positively with local partners to help families stay together, build strong social networks and enable our children to flourish. This job must be done thoroughly, so we can get to the root of what needs to change. It is about how systems work, not just individuals, and it takes time. Every day there are families in Herefordshire going through a crisis and needing help. I’m very proud of the compassionate, professional social workers working alongside them. Cllr Diana Toynbee Cabinet member – Children’s and Family Services May 16 I would like to apologise to children and families affected by the very serious failings in our Children’s Services. Since my arrival I have made it my top priority to ensure we make urgent changes so that children and families in Herefordshire get the quality of support they need. We are one year into our three-year plan to improve services for children and families, by reducing caseloads for Social Workers, recruiting more staff for home visits, providing better leadership and supervision for our staff, and by modernising our systems. We are committed to supporting families and protecting vulnerable children in our community. If you have any concerns about the way you or your family have been treated by Herefordshire Children’s Social Care Services, you can contact us at on our careconcerns webpage or or email careconcerns@herefordshire.gov.uk Paul Walker- Chief Executive, Herefordshire Council