NI construction firm GRAHAM has been appointed by Herefordshire Council to lead the initial phase of the Hereford Bypass, procured via Pagabo’s Civils and Infrastructure Framework.

Working under a Pre-Construction Services Agreement, the contractor will undertake detailed design and technical development following a competitive tender.

The award advances the long-anticipated scheme, set to create the first direct connection between the A49 and A465 in Hereford.

The project is intended to cut congestion on key routes in the south of the city by diverting traffic, improving journey times and helping to enhance local air quality.

GRAHAM will collaborate with the council and delivery partners ahead of a planned construction start in December. AtkinsRéalis has been named as multi-disciplinary design partner, covering highways, civil, structural and environmental services.

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Phase one comprises a new 3.6km single carriageway linking the A49/Ross Road–Rotherwas Access Road roundabout to the A465 Abergavenny Road, with an onward tie-in to the B4349 Clehonger Road.

The alignment includes multiple structures and underpasses, notably a bridge over the Hereford–Newport railway line, a key route between the Midlands and South Wales.

The bypass will also improve access to the Hereford Enterprise Zone, aiming to unlock economic growth by easing transport constraints and boosting journey reliability for businesses and staff.

Environmental features are integrated into the design, including wildlife crossings, sustainable drainage systems, habitat creation, hedgerow planting and wider landscape mitigation to support biodiversity.

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."

Phase one is scheduled to complete by the end of 2028 as part of a broader programme to enhance transport links across Herefordshire. A separate tender will award the final construction contract in the summer.