Hereford flood defence scheme gets the go-ahead

Hereford will get a £4m flood defence scheme following a decision by the government.

The project will go ahead after an inquiry found it was in the public interest and "fundamental to the viability of Hereford city centre".

Herefordshire Council sought the compulsory purchase of land at Credenhill after negotiations with some landowners were inconclusive.

The government has ruled there is a "compelling case" for the order.

Five objections to the order were initially raised but three were withdrawn at the start of the public inquiry in August 2010.

A council spokesman said the scheme would save nearly £3m a year in repairing damage to property and was "essential" to plans to develop the old livestock market.

The project will include shops and a multiplex cinema and create over 1,000 jobs.