A NEW crossing of the river Severn at Worcester will not be built before 2011 - if at all.

Transport bosses at Worcestershire County Council have confirmed that either the controversial northern bypass and new river bridge will be built, OR the A440 Temeside Way will be made a dual carriageway.

The two schemes will now be assessed to see which is most likely to ease traffic problems before work begins from 2011.

Richard Wigginton, Worcestershire County Council's director of environmental services, said public input into the council's proposals reinforced the need for the analysis.

"We've got to look at Worcester as a sub-regional centre in terms of economic growth and the transport needs that flow from that," he said.

"You can't do that on the hoof, you've got to have a proper study of where traffic is coming from and going and where in the future it will need to go.

"Work will begin in the autumn and, hopefully, by the time we submit the final plan next May we will have a fair idea of what's starting to emerge as a best option."

His comments came after the county council cabinet this week agreed to endorse suggestions from the public about the authority's plans made during a consultation period.

Eight-hundred-and-fifty individuals and organisation had their say on the proposals - including 200 alone on the Worcester road plans - and in general supported its overall aims and objectives. Key contributions included appeals for more bus services across the county and an evaluation of the impact heavy goods vehicles are having on roads.

The provisional local transport plan will be submitted to the Government in July. More consultation will take place in the autumn before the final strategy is submitted next year.