ONE-WAY regulations are set to be introduced on two roads in Worcester after campaigns by residents.

The Worcester Transportation Partnership is planning on making Blakefield Road and Graham Road in St John's one-way from Thursday, December 20.

Many residents and councillors have been fighting for the change for many years, claiming the roads have been used continually as rat runs.

They said their cars had been damaged by other drivers and were concerned over how many cars mounted the pavement when cutting through.

"This is something that a majority of residents have been suggesting over the years as there has been a problem with the road being used as a rat run," said Councillor Margaret Layland, who represents St John's ward.

"They have been waiting for something to alleviate it for a long time."

The order on Graham Road will be permanent, and will mean traffic will only be allowed to travel in a southerly direction from Blakefield Gardens to Bransford Road.

The order on Blakefield Road will be an experiment for six months, and traffic will only be allowed to travel in a westerly direction from Star Lane to Blakefield Walk.

It will only be made permanent if it is proved to be a success over the trial period.

"The intention behind the introduction of the one-way system in Graham Road is to deter its increasing use as a rat run for commuters," said Andy Rickman, assistant engineer at Worcester City Council.

"Although the existing traffic volumes in Blakefield Road do not warrant a one-way system, it is necessary in order to prevent an unacceptable number of vehicles using the street, which is narrow with a footpath on only one side.

"We hope both orders will increase the quality of life for those residents living along those roads."