HEREFORDSHIRE Council’s cabinet has today approved route SC2 as the preferred route for the Southern Link Road.

The Southern Link Road will address specific transport problems in the South Wye area and promote economic development by unlocking the barriers for both housing and economic growth.

The new route is planned from the A49 to the A465 - with a link to B4349.

Councillor Phillip Price, cabinet member for infrastructure, said: “I am delighted with the decision made by cabinet today. This road has been talked about by Herefordians for some forty years and at long last we have negotiated the first hurdle to making it a reality.

"The new road represents the first phase of a western relief road with aspirations for it to extend to the A49 in the future.

"More importantly in the short term, the road supports the council’s Core Strategy by unlocking much needed development land and easier access for businesses coming to and from the Enterprise Zone in Rotherwas.

"I am pleased to also say that the Highways Agency in its response to the Consultation is supportive of the approach being taken by the Council.

"My ambition for the county has always to ensure economic viability for business which in turn supports the development of more homes and the creation of more jobs; good news for everyone living in the county.”

Public consultation took place in July and August 2014 which looked at four shortlisted routes.

Following consideration of the feedback, a detailed appraisal of three alternative routes suggested by the public and third parties also took place.

Each of the three additional routes were appraised. The final routes were appraised in terms of engineering considerations, economic outcomes, impact to the environment, and an assessment of the social implications.

With cabinet approval now gained for the SC2 route, a planning application will be submitted before the end of the year.

The cabinet report and the preferred option report can be viewed on the council’s website.