Economy & place

Herefordshire is a predominantly rural county with around 95% of the county classified as such.  It has the the third lowest population density of any English county (behind Northumberland and Cumbria), with large areas of picturesque and relatively unspoilt countryside.  In addition to Hereford city, there are five historic market towns (Bromyard, Kington, Ledbury, Leominster and Ross-on-Wye), each with a distinctive character.  The county boasts numerous historic buildings, including Hereford’s impressive medieval cathedral.

Agriculture and manufacturing more important to Herefordshire's economy than is the case nationally

The transport network is mainly comprised of rural ‘C’ or unclassified roads leading off single carriageway ‘A’ roads, with limited access to the motorway and rail networks.

Herefordshire's Local Plan sets out the long term vision, strategy and objectives which will govern future development and land use in the county.  You can look at the evidence base for the Local Plan using the link in the 'Useful links' box.

In the related documents section of this page you can access the recent economy and place-related research and analysis that we have published.