Herefordshire Council of the UK has appointed civil engineering company GRAHAM to carry out the first stage of work on the Hereford Bypass.
GRAHAM said it secured the contract after a competitive tender process launched last year through Pagabo’s Civils and Infrastructure Framework.
Under a Pre-Construction Services Agreement (PCSA), GRAHAM will undertake comprehensive design and technical development before construction is scheduled to begin in December 2026.
GRAHAM will collaborate with project partners, including AtkinsRéalis, which has been named as the multi-disciplinary design partner responsible for highways, civil, structural, and environmental engineering.
The initial phase of the project consists of building a 3.6km single carriageway that will connect the A49/Ross Road–Rotherwas Access Road roundabout with the A465 Abergavenny Road, and provide further connectivity to the B4349 Clehonger Road.
The infrastructure scheme aims to establish the first direct link between the A49 and A465 roads in Hereford, redirecting traffic away from urban routes in the south of the city and addressing congestion issues.
The new route includes plans for several structures and underpasses, such as a bridge over the Hereford–Newport railway line, which offers connections between the Midlands and South Wales.
Improvements to transport links are designed to enhance access to the Hereford Enterprise Zone, supporting economic activity by targeting existing transport constraints and improving travel reliability for businesses and employees.
Environmental measures incorporated into the plan feature wildlife crossings, sustainable drainage systems, new habitats, hedgerow planting, and wider landscaping to encourage biodiversity.
GRAHAM contracts director Andrew Henry said: “It’s fantastic to have been appointed to deliver the initial works for such an important infrastructure project. A project of this size and scale can prove complex, so it’s great to be involved early in the process to mitigate risks and plan for success.
“The project represents a significant investment in the county’s future, helping to reduce congestion in the area and improve connectivity with other key regions, including South Wales.
“Through continued collaboration with Herefordshire Council and project partners, our team will focus on developing a robust and efficient project design that will deliver long-term benefits and facilitate regional socio-economic growth.”
Phase one of the bypass is scheduled for completion by late 2028 and is expected to provide a range of transport, environmental, and economic benefits.
The final construction contract will be awarded following an additional tender process set for summer.
