Council to consider CPO to keep bypass on track
Herefordshire CouncilHerefordshire Council has said it will begin discussions over whether to begin making a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) to secure land for a new bypass.
If approved by the council's cabinet on 18 December, the land would make way for the first phase of the Hereford Bypass, with construction due to begin by the end of 2026.
A spokesperson for the authority said its "preferred approach", however, remained acquiring the land through negotiation, and discussions with landowners.
They also said the "potential use of CPO powers should not be seen as undermining those negotiations" and rather "a necessary and proportionate safeguard".
A CPO is a legal tool that allows public bodies to acquire land or property without the owner's consent, where it is needed for a project that serves the public interest.
Councillor Philip Price, cabinet member for transport and infrastructure, said: "Cabinet will be asked to take an important step towards delivering one of the most significant infrastructure projects in Herefordshire's history.
"When fully delivered, the Hereford Bypass will unblock congestion in the city and allow it to breathe; it will unlock growth potential for the whole county with new homes and employment land, and it will unleash Herefordshire's future.
"The first phase will be the prerequisite of that vision. This latest milestone – a necessary and proportionate one – underlines this council's commitment to improve resilience and transform connectivity for our residents and businesses.
"This is why we back the bypass. While we continue to work hard to reach voluntary agreements with landowners, the option of a CPO helps us keep the project on track."
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