Public safety concerns have prompted the temporary closure of two popular walking routes in Ross-on-Wye after stones began falling from a nearby church roof.

Herefordshire Council has officially enacted the Public Footpaths ZK7 & ZK21 (Part) Ross-on-Wye (Temporary Closure) Order 2025 to protect pedestrians from the structural hazard.

The emergency closure affects specific sections of the footpaths, stretching between OS Grid References SO 5977 2406, SO 5976 2403, and SO 5975 2404. The local authority deemed the intervention necessary following reports of debris dropping from the church’s elevated roofline onto the walkways below.

To ensure minimal disruption to daily foot traffic, council highways teams have established a straightforward diversion. Pedestrians who regularly use the closed paths are being advised to use Church Street as an alternative route.

The safety order came back into active force on 28 May 2026. Under current legislation, the restriction is permitted to remain in place for a period not exceeding 12 months.

However, council officials have confirmed that the paths will reopen sooner if the necessary structural repairs to the church roof are completed ahead of schedule. Conversely, if the works experience delays, the closure could be extended further by the Secretary of State.

Residents wishing to view a copy of the official order and the detailed diversion plan can access them online at the council's website (www.herefordshire.gov.uk). Any specific queries regarding the closure or the ongoing works should be directed via email to the Public Rights of Way team at [email protected].

A transport company has applied for a licence to establish a new operating centre near Ross-on-Wye.

Mariusz Kozlinski, trading as MPN Transport Ltd, is seeking permission to station three vehicles and one trailer at Mason Potatoes, based at Little Pengethley Farm in Peterstow.

Local residents and landowners who believe the development will affect their use or enjoyment of nearby property have 21 days to object.

Written representations must be sent to the Traffic Commissioner in Leeds, with a copy forwarded to the applicant’s address at 34 Oak Crescent, Hereford.

The U70417 at Deepdean will temporarily close opposite Bramble Cottage on June 10, 2026, for urgent pole replacement works. Drivers can divert via the U70416 and C1275. While the safety order lasts up to 18 months, Herefordshire Council expects the project to be completed within a single day.

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