SHOPKEEPERS on Unicorn Hill have objected to the latest proposals to keep a taxi rank outside their stores.

The consultation period for plans to retain a taxi rank on Unicorn Hill and move short-term parking for the shops to Bates Hill came to an end last Wednesday.

The plans came after initial proposals to move the rank from Unicorn Hill to Bates Hill met strong opposition from taxi drivers.

Many felt it was not safe to have a rank on Bates Hill and drivers even took strike action on a Saturday night in protest at the proposal.

During a Redditch Council meeting last month, it was agreed to keep the rank in Unicorn Hill.

Licensing officer Eddie Isaacs said: "We have received several objections to the new proposals, mainly from shopkeepers who want their customers to be able to park outside their stores."

Original short stay car parking on Unicorn Hill was stopped more than two years ago to allow a temporary taxi rank to operate while the bus station was built.

Mr Isaacs added: "The latest proposal, including the objections, will go before the council's executive committee on January 21 where it will be considered again."