TRAFFIC problems in Worcestershire could be eased, thanks to a new transport partnership which looks set to be given the green light.

The Freight Quality Partnership will aim to beat congestion in the county by looking at the problems faced by transport companies delivering to Worcestershire and finding solutions at a local level.

The partnership came a step closer after a seminar at Worcester's County Hall which was attended by 35 representatives from interested parties including West Mercia Police, local businesses and the county council.

Ed Dursley, senior transportation engineer at Worcestershire county council said the seminar had been a real success.

"It was a very successful exercise," he said.

"I was pleased that a whole range of organisations were represented, all of which came up with a range of problems and solutions.

"We have had a healthy interest in the partnership, which will aim to achieve positive solutions for the freight problems in the county."

During last month's seminar, representatives looked at producing a detailed route map of Worcestershire to stop lorries ending up on unsuitable roads when they get lost.

Emilie van de Graff, county council travel plan co-ordinator, said the partnership would help to ease pollution in Worcestershire as vehicles would not be stationary with their engines running while stuck in congestion.

"This will help reduce the environmental impact of traffic pollution by streamlining movements in the county," she said.

PC Mike Digger, at Pershore's Traffic Management Unit, welcomed the initiative, but called for planning officials in Worcestershire to become involved.

"This is a positive step forward," he said.

"It would bring the relevant people together to solve traffic problems or even prevent them becoming an issue in the first place.

"But I would call for planning officials to get involved in the partnership as we often find that by the time we raise an issue a planning proposal has already been approved.

"A partnership like this would allow all relevant authorities discuss issues with planners before it is too late and something is approved."