TRAFFIC troubles topped a list of what people in Worcester want improving the most.

The issue was the most common source of anger from residents in Worcester City Council’s biggest annual survey.

Meanwhile, the number of residents who consider antisocial behaviour a problem in the city has increased, while satisfaction with litter and doorstep recycling has fallen.

The Viewpoint Survey, which went to 619 households, suggested people were happier with the city overall, even if views over litter and youth crime have worsened.

But traffic was the biggest gripe in the city for the second year on the trot, suggesting the public want to see more focus on it.

Worcester MP Robin Walker said: “It is no surprise congestion tops people’s lists for improvements as on the doorsteps it’s a persistent issue.”

On Facebook, Worcester News readers agreed.

Mark Small wrote: “Decent cycling infrastructure would be nice and would help the traffic congestion.”

Road and paving repairs is the second biggest priority, pushing job prospects into third place.

Sheila English said on Facebook: “The state of the roads is worst. Pavements also. Traffic is dire and I’m sick of roadworks everywhere.”

Mr Walker added: “Overall,results are a reminder Wocester is a fantastic place to live, and we are lucky to be in such a great city.”

Public transport is the fourth biggest priority for Worcester people, with activities for teenagers making up the top five.

As far as governance is concerned, 71 per cent of people say they are happy with how the authority runs its affairs, compared to 53 per cent last year.

And 61 per cent think Guildhall chiefs act on people’s concerns, a surge on the dismal 31 per cent recorded 12 months ago.

A sample of the questionnaires went to specific areas of ‘highest need’, where income levels are low and poverty high, such as Ronkswood and Tolladine.

People in those areas said crime was what they wanted improving most, with road repairs second, then activities for teenagers.

Just 38 per cent of people in those areas felt the city council provided value for money, down seven points since last year.

WHERE WORCESTER FARED WELL (2012 - 2011)
Satisfaction with the way Worcester City Council runs things: 71% 53%
The council provides value for money: 55% 49%
Public services act on the concerns of residents: 61% 48%
Satisfaction with parks and open spaces: 87% 83%
Satisfaction with planning and building control: 40% 31%
Satisfaction with housing support services: 37% 25%
Satisfaction with council tax and housing benefits: 42% 38%

WHERE WORCESTER FARED WORST (2012 2011)
Satisfaction with keeping land clear of litter: 58% 65%
Satisfaction with doorstep recycling: 76% 82%
Agree people from different backgrounds get on well locally: 71% 79%
Think anti-social behaviour is a problem: 19% 14%