DISMAYED Worcester traders have hit out at parking restrictions - saying a crackdown is damaging their businesses.

In May last year four streets in Barbourne were made 'residents-only' by Worcestershire County Council in a bid to help nearby householders find a space.

But the measure, which affected Hebb Street, Brewery Walk, Ashcroft Road and Vincent Road, has left traders struggling, with many saying customers cannot find anywhere to park.

There are three 45-minute slots at the top of Hebb Street but apart from that, the rest of it is now exclusive to residents seven days a week.

Around 30 traders belonging to Barbourne Business Community have signed a petition calling for it to be scrapped including hairdressers, a chip shop, newsagents and architects.

Many of them say parking is "absolutely vital" to their survival, especially as the nearest public car park is at Pitchcroft, some distance away.

The group also insists spaces are consistently empty along the streets, suggesting the residents' demand is not as great as first thought.

The council initially said it would review the restrictions six months in, and has now told traders it will be looked at again in 18 months.

But the stance has left the businesses frustrated, saying despite continued calls to ditch the scheme, they are getting nowhere.

Nick Joyce, from Nick Joyce Architects in Barbourne Road, said: "Every day since the introduction of the scheme, 24 hours a day and seven days a week, there have always been empty parking spaces.

"This is a tertiary trading area and on-street parking is absolutely vital to the ability of these businesses to survive.

"We rely upon spaces for customers and clients to park their cars and for deliveries, the use of the car park at Pitchcroft is simply impractical."

He insists the traders "do not object to residents having a right to park" but says the county council should offer some three-hour spaces, as currently exists in Britannia Square, as one possible suggestion.

The council says it is aware of the unrest and will look at the request.

Jon Fraser, County Hall's customer manager for highways, said: "We are aware there are a range of feelings on the current parking scheme, and the county council welcomes feedback from residents and businesses.

"As with all petitions, we will review this petition once it is received and respond accordingly."