GRAHAM Selected to Progress Design Work for Hereford Bypass Project

Construction and civil engineering contractor GRAHAM has been appointed by Herefordshire Council to undertake early-stage work on the proposed Hereford Bypass, marking a significant step forward for the long-planned transport scheme.

The appointment follows a competitive procurement process carried out through the Civils and Infrastructure Framework managed by Pagabo. Under a Pre-Construction Services Agreement (PCSA), GRAHAM will now lead detailed planning, design development and technical assessments ahead of the construction phase.

Moving the Project Towards Construction

The project aims to deliver a new road linking the A49 and the A465, providing the first direct connection between the two major routes around Hereford. The bypass is expected to play an important role in easing traffic congestion in the southern part of the city by redirecting vehicles away from heavily used urban roads.

By reducing traffic volumes in central areas, the scheme is intended to improve travel times, reduce pressure on existing road networks and contribute to improved air quality.

GRAHAM will work alongside Herefordshire Council and other partners to develop the scheme further in preparation for construction, which is currently expected to begin in December.

Design Support from AtkinsRéalis

To support the project, GRAHAM has appointed AtkinsRéalis as the multi-disciplinary design partner. The consultancy will provide specialist expertise across several areas including highway engineering, civil and structural design, as well as environmental planning.

Details of the First Phase

The initial phase of the bypass project will involve constructing a 3.6 kilometre single carriageway. The route will connect the A49/Ross Road–Rotherwas Access Road roundabout with the A465 Abergavenny Road, while also linking to the B4349 Clehonger Road.

Several structures will be incorporated along the route, including underpasses and a bridge crossing over the Hereford–Newport railway line, a key rail corridor connecting the Midlands with South Wales.

Boosting Economic Connectivity

The new bypass is also expected to improve access to the Hereford Enterprise Zone, strengthening connections between the site and the surrounding road network. Improved access could support economic development in the area by making travel more reliable for both businesses and employees.

Environmental Considerations

Environmental protection and biodiversity measures have been integrated into the scheme’s design. Planned features include wildlife crossings, sustainable drainage systems, habitat creation and new hedgerow planting, alongside broader landscaping efforts to minimise environmental impact.

Industry Partners Highlight Project Importance

Andrew Henry, Contracts Director at GRAHAM, said the company is pleased to be involved in such an important regional infrastructure project.

He explained that early involvement in the development phase will allow the team to identify potential risks and establish a strong foundation for successful delivery. Henry added that the scheme represents a significant investment in Herefordshire’s future by helping to reduce congestion and strengthening connections with neighbouring regions, including South Wales.

Ian Spellacey, Market Director for Strategic and Regional Highways at AtkinsRéalis, also emphasised the importance of the project. He said the bypass could play a key role in supporting future development across Hereford, including new housing and business opportunities.

Spellacey noted that by working closely with GRAHAM and the council, the design team aims to deliver a well-integrated and sustainable infrastructure project that will improve connectivity and provide lasting benefits for the city and surrounding communities