I WRITE in response to the headline ‘Pledge after town’s mayhem’, which turned out to be a piece about Leominster’s long-requested public realm improvements in the historic centre of our medieval town.

In the past few weeks national news has been full of reports of riots and criminal damage. To me, mayhem, which means violent or extreme disorder, would be a suitable word for that.

In contrast, Herefordshire Council is making an orderly and long-requested investment in Leominster town centre using a local contractor.

For many years Leominster people have been united in their opinion that the state of the town centre was a major hindrance to trade and completely unacceptable. Now that investment is being made.

There is obviously some disruption, including noise, dust and some temporary diversions. But it is not possible to make an omelette without breaking eggs.

May I assure your readers that Leominster is very much open for business, with all shops, including those in the central improvement zone, accessible and open for business as works progress.

Already we can see that the new flatter and often wider pavements will be major improvements for pedestrians, including vulnerable users.

In a few short weeks High Street, Corn Street and Victoria Street will all be complete and open to vehicles and shoppers again.

I support all our local businesses in their call for local people to come to Leominster for their shopping and enjoy the current two-hour free parking offer in Etnam Street car park.

Even small purchases make a real difference to our independent businesses. Our trade is what keeps them going, so please spread the word that our town remains open for business.

A few years ago locals were asked to describe Leominster. The word that came up most often was ‘friendly’.

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Now is the time for us to be friendly and welcoming – to our businesses, to visitors from near and far and to the workers who are doing their best to complete a challenging project in a constrained area in good time.

TRISH MARSH

LEOMINSTER TOWN COUNCILLOR AND CHAIR OF HAZ LIAISON GROUP