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
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