GRAHAM appointed for pre-construction phase of Hereford Bypass scheme

By Danny BallPublished On: March 23rd, 2026Categories: Top Stories

GRAHAM has been appointed by Herefordshire Council to deliver initial works on the Hereford Bypass, marking progress on the long-planned highways infrastructure scheme.

The contractor has been procured through the Pagabo Civils and Infrastructure Framework and will operate under a Pre-Construction Services Agreement (PCSA), undertaking design development and technical planning ahead of construction.

The Hereford Bypass is intended to create a new transport corridor linking the A49 and A465, providing the first direct connection between the two routes. The scheme is designed to reduce congestion on existing roads in the south of the city by diverting traffic away from urban areas.

Construction is currently anticipated to begin in December, with GRAHAM working alongside Herefordshire Council and project partners to refine the design and programme.

Andrew Henry, Contracts Director at GRAHAM, 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.”

Design development to support 3.6km bypass route

Phase one of the scheme will deliver a 3.6km single carriageway connecting the A49/Ross Road–Rotherwas Access Road roundabout with the A465 Abergavenny Road, with a further link to the B4349 Clehonger Road.

The route will incorporate a number of structures, including underpasses and a bridge crossing the Hereford–Newport railway line, a key route between the Midlands and South Wales.

GRAHAM has appointed AtkinsRéalis as multi-disciplinary design partner, providing highways, civil, structural and environmental design services.

Ian Spellacey, Market Director – Strategic & Regional Highways at AtkinsRéalis, said: “The Hereford Western Bypass is an important investment in the city’s future, with the potential to support new developments across the city, including new homes and opportunities for businesses.

“Working closely with GRAHAM, we will apply our extensive experience designing large and complex highways projects to help deliver a sustainable, well-integrated scheme that improves connectivity and brings lasting benefits for Hereford and its adjacent communities.”

Infrastructure scheme aims to improve connectivity and support growth

The bypass is also expected to improve access to the Hereford Enterprise Zone, supporting economic activity by improving journey reliability for businesses and employees.

Environmental measures form part of the design, including sustainable drainage systems, wildlife crossings, habitat creation and landscaping to support biodiversity.

Adam Brumfitt, regional director for the Midlands, said: “It’s great to see the Hereford Bypass scheme progressing through the Civils and Infrastructure Framework and reaching this important stage. By bringing together the right partners through a robust procurement route, the framework enables projects like this to move forward with confidence and collaboration from the outset.”

“Infrastructure investment of this scale will play a key role in improving connectivity, reducing congestion and supporting economic growth across Herefordshire, and we’re pleased that the framework has helped facilitate the appointment of GRAHAM to begin the next phase of work.”

Phase one of the Hereford Bypass is expected to complete by the end of 2028. A further tender process is planned to appoint the main construction contractor in summer, as part of the wider programme to improve transport connectivity across the region.