Herefordshire Council has published plans for a major £40 million investment to improve roads, footpaths and public spaces across the county in 2026/27, representing one of the most significant infrastructural commitments in recent years.
The proposed programme would fund extensive improvements to the county’s transport network and public realm, including:
- Road resurfacing
- Drainage enhancements
- Safer walking routes
- Upgrades to public rights of way
- Repairs to structures and bridges
- Improvements to play areas
If approved, the plans would mark a substantial step forward in addressing long‑term maintenance needs and boosting the quality of local infrastructure for residents and visitors.
The package includes £23 million from the Department for Transport (DfT) and £17 million from Herefordshire Council—a commitment that underscores the council’s ambition to tackle ongoing infrastructure challenges and improve safety and accessibility across the county.
The papers also propose continuing the popular Parish Lengthsman Scheme, with £945,000 available for town and parish councils.
The scheme allows local councils to undertake small but vital maintenance tasks such as clearing drains, cutting back overgrown footpaths, and light repairs on local routes.
The Lenthgsman Scheme empowers communities to respond quickly to local issues and focus on problems that matter most to residents.
Cabinet Member for Roads and Regulatory Services, Cllr Barry Durkin, said:
“Residents consistently tell us that maintaining roads and public spaces is one of their top priorities, and these plans are designed to help make visible improvements across the county with over 80 miles of road resurfacing and surface dressing planned in the year ahead.”
A significant change outlined in the report is the shift to a new Public Realm Services delivery model beginning in June, when the council's current contract with Balfour Beatty Living Places ends.
Under the new approach:
- Herefordshire Council will take a more direct role in managing services
- Work will be delivered by M Group Highways Ltd and specialist contractors
- The council will have greater control, clearer oversight, and more flexibility in how maintenance and improvement works are delivered
This change is designed to improve accountability, service quality and responsiveness.
If councillors approve the plans, the combination of significant investment, stronger community involvement, and a modernised delivery model, is expected to bring meaningful, visible improvements to Herefordshire’s roads, footpaths, and public spaces throughout 2026/27.
For residents, this would mean smoother journeys, safer walking routes, better-maintained local spaces, and more resilient infrastructure capable of withstanding extreme weather and long-term wear.
Image credit: iStock
