MALVERN residents are being invited to have their say on proposed changes to Church Street - including making it one way downhill.

Worcestershire County Council wants to improve access and traffic flow, and it is holding a public consultation on Wednesday to introduce its ideas.

Church Street currently experiences frequent short-term congestion in its narrower parts, due to parking, deliveries and buses passing through.

Alongside the on-street parking spaces for about eight cars, there is not sufficient space for two vehicles to pass comfortably, leading to delays.

For pedestrians, there is the opportunity to improve access to the retailers on Church Street, in Church Walk and further afield, by making more useful connections, such as informal crossings.

A traffic and access study was conducted to consider the impact of various changes to the traffic arrangements on Church Street.

After considering this report, the county council is proposing two options. One is the one-way proposal, the other is to keep two-way flow, but carry out various enhancements in the road.

Coun Ken Pollock said: "Public realm schemes such as these are essential to transform town centres into functional yet attractive spaces where people can visit, shop and enjoy their leisure time.

"We have two options and we'd like to hear the views of residents on which one they would prefer."

The consultation is at Waitrose, Edith Walk, from 10am until noon.

If all goes to plan, works will take place at Easter next year.

The wider consultation started on Friday, November 10, and finishes on December 22. To take part, visit worcestershire.gov.uk/greatmalvern.