Move to cut congestion to go ahead

A new park and ride facility will be created at a railway station near Kidderminster to stop drivers clogging roads.

The scheme will be built on a former station yard at Blakedown.

Permission for the park and ride was granted by councillors at a meeting last night and they hope it will ease congestion on surrounding roads.

Motorists park in the street to avoid paying the £3 fee at Kidderminster station three miles away, according to residents. People living around Station Drive have been particularly hit by inconsiderate drivers who have blocked driveways.

The plan, submitted by Stourport-based Hingley and Callow oils, was approved Wyre Forest District Council's planning committee and there will be spaces for 34 cars. The charge will be £1.50 a day.

Councillor Jim Long, who sits on Blakedown and Churchill Parish Council, said: "We very much welcome this application.

"It is part of the council's bigger plan to offer better parking in the village."