A CASH boost worth hundreds of millions of pounds can be confirmed as coming Herefordshire's way - and there's a bonus, writes BILL TANNER.

Regional development agency Advantage West Midlands will be making the mega-money available for regeneration projects across the county.

Although the sum was first announced as on the way earlier this year, neighbouring counties questioned the initial allocation.

Herefordshire Council leader Terry James says he's now heard that nothing will change. In fact, two new city wards - Hinton and Central - have been added to the original brief.

That's good news for supporters of the ambitious Edgar Street initiative, which can now find funding from this lucrative source.

Retail mall

Developers are queuing up to kick-start a scheme that transforms the area around and including Hereford United's football ground. A multiplex cinema, sports administration centre, hotel, offices and shops are part of the plan.

Units at the Cattle Market would make way for a purpose-built farmers/produce mart, while a retail mall in proposed for the Garrick House site.

Herefordshire was earmarked for such substantial investment after extensive research into its economic potential. A final total could, says Councillor James, run into hundreds of millions from the public, private and European sectors.

The county, he says, is now in a great bargaining position over business opportunities.