THE Government announced last month that it was creating a £250m emergency active travel fund for local authorities.

It says the coronavirus lockdown has presented them with a ‘window of opportunity’ to ‘embed’ walking and cycling as part of new long-term commuting habits.

This will provide health benefits, improve air quality and reduce traffic congestion.

Herefordshire Council has jumped on this opportunity and is considering a wide range of temporary changes to Hereford and the market towns.

These could see timed road closures and lanes closed to allow more space for pedestrians and cyclists.

Businesses in the market towns were notified on June 16, and given just a week to respond to the proposals. The council is also understood to have consulted with local councillors.

But it seems they have forgotten to ask those who will actually benefit or suffer from these changes – the general public.

The council also refused to share these plans with the Press.

This odd approach has inevitably led to misinformed speculation and confusion.

Coalition administration leaders at Plough Lane would do well to remember the criticism they levelled at the previous Conservative administration not too long ago.

In opposition they called for more transparency and public participation – and rightly so.

But now as they get used to being in power it seems openness is no longer so important!