Gavin Mcewan

Herefordshire Council has approved plans to convert part of the former HSBC building on Broad Street in Leominster into a Domino's outlet. The Grade II listed building will undergo limited external alterations, including louvred extraction and air vents, while its upper floors remain unchanged. The permission includes conditions on noise, odour, opening hours and delivery times. Although some residents objected to the town's number of fast-food businesses, planning officers found no evidence of over-provision or associated high levels of obesity, deprivation or health inequality.

Several pubs in Herefordshire are preparing to open for England’s World Cup match against Mexico after the UK government relaxed licensing rules, allowing venues in England and Wales to stay open until 05:00 BST. Eight pubs had applied for Temporary Event Notices, which were refunded after the rule change. Some venues expect strong turnout, while others will remain closed due to concerns such as noise. Wetherspoons confirmed only five of its pubs will open for the match. The decision follows England reaching the last 16, with local authorities and venues adapting plans accordingly.

Residents and parish councillors in Little Birch oppose a plan to convert the closed Castle Inn pub into a five‑bedroom home, arguing its loss would remove a vital social hub and that insufficient evidence has been provided to justify ending its community role. Herefordshire Council is consulting on the application until mid‑July, with a decision expected by late July.

Plans to redevelop Hereford’s museum and art gallery have been scaled back after projected costs rose about £14m above the original budget. Herefordshire Council will remove proposals for a new upper floor and roof terraces, focusing instead on restoring the existing Grade II* building. Hereford Civic Society chair Jeremy Milln said the changes validate earlier concerns about financial viability. A planned new city library at Shire Hall will also be reduced in scope. Redesign work means construction on both projects is delayed until next summer, with the council citing economic pressures and challenges of restoring historic buildings.