THE Wyre Piddle public inquiry recommendation, which backs the closure of the Evesham end of the village except for buses and emergency vehicles, is expected to be rubber stamped by the county council today.

The inspector's report also recommends access for pedestrians, cyclists and some large delivery vehicles.

It is hoped the move will draw the line under the controversial issue that has divided residents since the bypass was completed.

They were split over whether or not the access road should be closed off completely following the opening of the new bypass. Many feared totally closing the road would sound the death knell for the village's post office, pub and bed and breakfast businesses.

Worcestershire County Councillor and Wychavon District Councillor Liz Tucker had fought in favour of keeping the road open except for heavy goods vehicles. She said: "It has been a bitterly fought argument but my feeling is that the umpire's word is final."

"I really believe we have now reached a time where people should try and work with whatever is on the table. I think it is really important that everyone works together to achieve the Western Link which is the route towards Pershore."

Other Wyre Piddle residents were concerned about the route developing into a rat-run for people travelling to Pershore, if the road remained open, including parish council chairman Gary Robinson.

He said: "The services in the village should take a maximum advantage of the opportunity - in fact some of the bed and breakfast owners are looking forward to having a quiet village again."