TRAFFIC congestion in Worcestershire should be tackled by providing "quality" alternatives to cars, the county council's head of transportation claims.

Jeff Romanis said providing better public transport and improved pedestrian and cycling routes would help reduce the amount of private cars on the road.

His comments were made after the council was given almost £12m for road safety improvements through a series of initiatives to prevent accidents involving cyclists and pedestrians.

"One of the most important things we're trying to do is to provide quality alternatives to the car," said Mr Romanis.

"These can range from better walking and cycling networks to much improved bus services with the help of bus operators, district councils and the health authority. This funding will provide new initiatives across the county."

Of the £11.7m received, £7.4m will be allocated to maintenance and bridge strengthening, which will prevent further deterioration of roads and footpaths.

The remaining £4.3m will be used on integrated transport initiatives for accident prevention, including the safer routes to schools programme.

The initiatives will also include funding for the Wyre Piddle and Upper Moor bypass, which has been promised £3.6m of separate funding by the Government.

Work on the long awaited bypass, which was delayed by the foot-and-moth outbreak earlier this year, is due to start in February.

Councillor Alwyn Davies, cabinet member for the environment, said he was delighted with the funding.

"It really is satisfying when all the work that goes into planning for better and safer highways and transport systems gets the funding it needs," he said.

"The Government is certainly keeping its promises to Worcestershire on transport. The money will keep the council on target to stop the deterioration of roads and footways by 2004, and maintain the work started on providing safe routes to schools throughout Worcestershire by 2005."