Published 13/9/2026 By William Turtle-Clark

Herefordshire Council is seeking additional funding to complete a new city-centre wetland project at Merton Meadow following weather-related delays.

The constructed wetland, situated on the former car park extension on the north side of Merton Meadow alongside Widemarsh Brook, forms part of a £2 million scheme funded by central government. Work began at the start of the year with an original expected completion date of spring.

A council spokesperson confirmed that poor weather conditions between January and March caused delays and increased costs. While a decision regarding the request for extra funding is scheduled to be made by Councillor Graham Biggs, Cabinet Member for Economy and Growth, by October 15, the local authority has not disclosed the precise amount required.

Despite the delays, the new nature area is expected to open towards the end of September once final safety signage and equipment are installed. The site features newly created walkways, bridges, wooden handrails, and fresh aquatic planting.

The wetland represents the initial phase of a broader masterplan to transform the Merton Meadow area—which previously suffered severe flooding in 2007, 2008, 2012, and 2019—into a new urban residential village. To offset the reduction in surface car parking caused by the project, the council plans to construct a multi-storey car park on the site of the current Country Bus Station.