A ROAD is to be raised by up to 3ft in height to save disturbing a 19th Century burial site.

The stretch in Tallow Hill, which runs around the car park, will soon be rebuilt as part of a two-phase revamp of the site.

Worcester city council's planning committee agreed to raise the height of the road to save disturbing the burial ground underneath.

The new road will cut through the car park to St Martin's Gate.

"Tallow Hill used to be a burial ground," said Peter Yates, the city council's principal planning officer.

"There are still burials under there and the overall scheme had archaeological considerations."

The planning committee agreed the car park should be raised between 1.5ft and 3ft.

"Residents have been informed and haven't objected," said Mr Yates.

St Modwen Developments is planning to straighten the road, eliminating the double right-angle turn in George Street and Spring Lane, which is considered dangerous to pedestrians and cyclists.

The planning committee made the decision not to extend the car park over the nearby Tallow Hill play area until a new site was found.

But it did approve minor works to the car park to make it secure.

"The police are trying to encourage desired features for safety," said Mr Yates, speaking after the meeting.

"Lighting is to be revamped to help make it secure."

Mr Yates said he would be talking to PC Steve Chidlow about the new measures.

"Women on their own at night prefer decent lighting if they have parked a car," he added.