We would like to voice our support for the proposed Hereford Southern Link Road which

forms part of the South Wye Transport Package. We note that improving health and

wellbeing are key objectives of the proposals which, alongside economic benefits for the city,

will help to directly deliver health outcomes by encouraging physical activity and reducing

road accidents.

It is understood that the Southern Link Road and the future Hereford Bypass will support the

local economy, address the transport problems faced by the city and are widely supported.

However, one outcome which is rarely considered or reported is the positive impact the

bypass will have on the general health and wellbeing of Hereford’s population.

We are all aware that air pollution and obesity can contribute to poor health, but significant

impacts can also be caused by a lack of housing and inadequate employment. The Hereford

Bypass, once constructed will have a multi-faceted impact on the health and wellbeing of

those not only living in the South Wye area of Hereford, but those living and working in the

city.

The Hereford Bypass, we know, will enable the construction of 6,500 homes and facilitate the

creation of several thousand jobs. Alongside this the sustainable transport projects proposed

will enable people to walk and cycle more safely in the city, reduce severance caused by

large volumes of traffic on city roads, provide safer routes to school and reduce noise and air

pollution.

If you combine these benefits you will see tangible improvements to the health of the people

of Hereford city.

MARTIN SAMUELS

DIRECTOR FOR ADULTS AND

WELLBEING

PROFESSOR ROD THOMSON

DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC HEALTH FOR

HEREFORDSHIRE