Traffic plan on rat run

An ambitious traffic calming scheme with mini-roundabouts, chicanes and a zebra crossing is being proposed for a road in Kidderminster used as a rat-run by motorists.

The scheme is being designed to slow down drivers using Hoo Road as an unofficial ring road and if the go-ahead is given work could start as early as next April.

But officials want to gauge the support of local residents for the scheme and plan to stage an exhibition at the First Kidderminster Sea Scouts headquarters building at 152, Hoo Road, between 3.30pm and 7.30pm on Tuesday.

Campaigners living locally have been complaining about the dangers of speeding drivers and the volume of traffic using the residential road for several years.

This has steadily worsened as road works have been carried out in the area with drivers seeking shortcuts to avoid delays.

People living locally off Hoo Road have also complained about the nuisance from Harriers fans leaving their cars parked along residential streets close to the Aggborough Stadium on matchdays.

If the scheme does go ahead council tax-payers will not be asked to foot the bill as the money will come from an agreement with developers working locally, who have promised to help pay to improve local roads as part of planning permissions given for projects.

John Aston, pictured, Wyre Forest District Councillor for Aggborough and Spennells welcomed the scheme. "I think it is an excellent idea. A lot of people use it as a short cut thorough the town and this will have make it safer for people crossing the road."