THE scheme to revitalise Ross-on-Wye's town centre following severe flood damage during the summer of 2024, cost £30,645 according to a report presented to councillors this week.

The aim of the Ross Recovery Strategy was to restore public confidence, boost local business activity through a comprehensive media campaign and physical interventions.

Its key message was to say that Ross is a resilient town and is open for business.

A working group was formed to help deliver the strategy and facilitate the actions agreed.

The grant funding received towards Ross Recovery covered the expenditure which included £10,000 from Herefordshire Council, £10,000 from Welsh Water, £10,000 from Herefordshire County BID and £880 from WOW grant funding through Herefordshire Council.

Activities undertaken included the social media campaign at £5,400; hanging baskets (additional for Brookend Street) £240; Pop-up Beach £14,010; (WOW grant funding was for packed lunches and staff costs) and a visit from an influencer cost £65.

A tourism promotional video cost £400 and the Market House reopening oafter its restoration amounted to £950.

October half term activities £500; a snow globe addition for the Christmas Fayre £1,100; Easter Market £2,490 and the Summer Buzz campaign: £5,407.

It was hoped that a comprehensive recovery strategy that combines a robust media campaign with physical enhancements will help Ross-on-Wye bounce back from the flooding in 2024.

And by reassuring the public, beautifying the town, and actively promoting local businesses, the town was able to restore the vibrancy and economic health of Ross-on-Wye.