Published 22/08/2026 By William Turtle-Clark

Hereford Business Improvement District (BID) has welcomed Herefordshire Council’s new draft Parking Strategy for 2026–2041, but warned that changing consumer habits present a major challenge to the city centre.

The proposed 15-year strategy aims to overhaul local parking, with Hereford BID praising initiatives focused on accessibility, upgraded technology, pay-on-exit systems, and a more customer-focused approach.

However, the business group urged decision-makers to recognise that parking policy must actively support local traders in an increasingly difficult retail environment.

Latest footfall figures released by Hereford BID reveal that visitor numbers in the city centre are down by around 20 per cent compared to the same period last year, continuing a long-term decline seen over recent years.

The group highlighted how convenience-driven subscription services—allowing consumers to order meals, groceries, and everyday products straight to their door—have altered high street shopping habits. Hereford BID noted that for around £4.99 a month, services like Deliveroo and Uber Eats are driving rapid growth for major retailers such as Waitrose and Superdrug, leading many consumers to question whether driving into the city and paying for parking is worth the journey.

A spokesperson for Hereford BID said that while people still want to visit Hereford, visitors are increasingly looking for "an experience rather than simply to shop," adding: "That makes parking more important than ever. It should be viewed as an investment in footfall and the local economy, not just a source of income."

Acknowledging the significant financial pressures facing Herefordshire Council to cover operational costs, Hereford BID welcomed the public consultation, calling for ground-level stakeholder engagement to ensure parking becomes "part of the solution" for a thriving city centre.