Diversion will increase problems, say residents (From Worcester News)

Diversion will increase problems, say residents

1:40pm Thursday 21st February 2013 in News By Catherine Phillips, Reporter

PROBLEMS: Maurice Francis is concerned about the parking on Bilford Road. Picture by Paul Jackson. 0713246701

THE closure of a main artery route into Worcester will increase problems with parking along nearby Bilford Road, residents have warned.

Severn Trent Water this week began work to stop a sewer in Barbourne Road from flooding. The work, which is expected to last five weeks, has resulted in one side of Ombersley Road being closed.

Maurice Francis, of Gilmour Crescent, believes the increase in drivers having to avoid Ombersley Road could make the alternative route dangerous, particularly outside Perdiswell Primary School.

Traffic has already been backing up along roads around the area during rush hour but when the schools return from half term on Monday it is feared motorists will face more chaos.

The 66-year-old said: “The problem down Bilford Road is going to get worse with the diversion in place.

“A lot of people won’t go down Droitwich Road but will come through Bilford Road instead.”

Claines Local Policing Team has listed the issue as a priority after it was brought up in a PACT meeting.

They plan to carry out visits to the school to hand out Penalty Notices to people parked illegally.

Mr Francis said: “It has been going on for years. When the school’s coming in or going out there are cars parked all over the place.

“I use the road regularly, about 3/4 times a week but try to avoid it if I can if the children are coming or going to school.”

The school was unavailable for comment as your Worcester News went to press but on its website there were notices alerting people to the complaints from neighbours and thanking those who parked sensibly Parents had also been thanked for parking at Bowl Extreme and Nuffield Health Fitness and Wellbeing Centre which eased congestion on the road.

Jon Fraser, Worcestershire County Council’s highways manager, encouraged motorists, including residents and parents/ carers picking up or dropping off children at school, to always ensure they parked safely and sensibly with consideration for others.