TRAFFIC chaos in Brierley Hill could be a thing of the past if tough new parking restrictions get the green light.

Dudley Council is proposing massive changes in regulations which will ban parking on large sections of the busy shopping street and many roads in the area.

Transport bosses say the scheme is one of the most ambitious in the UK and will bring benefits to traders.

Peter Van Geersdale, from Dudley's Highways Department said: "Brierley Hill is a very important shopping centre, this will help the area a great deal.

"It will reduce through traffic and help those visiting the High Street to drive along as traffic will be flowing in both directions."

The traffic orders will work in conjunction with a new parallel route, which is currently under construction, to take through traffic away from the shopping area.

If approved the new regulations will come into play at the end of the year and be enforced by council parking attendants.

Council patrols are set to start on Monday July 7 when the authority takes over responsibility for parking enforcement from the police.

Traders and residents are yet to take a close look at the proposals, which could impact on residents' parking in surrounding streets.

Brierley Hill councillor Margaret Wilson, whose home is close to the High Street, said: "There has got to be parking close to town, I have not seen the detail yet but if they make it difficult for people they will park further out.

"They will park out by us and folks won't like that."

Shane Birch-Bastock, chairman of Brierley Hill Traders Association, said: "Something definitely needs to be done soon, the new road takes out council car parking spaces.

"These places need to be put back."

Dudley Council published detailed plans this week and the scheme is open for consultation until the end of May.

Peter Van Geersdale said: "Dudley Council will always take in any verbal or written comments, the council is always pleased to talk to people."

For full details of the plans and how to comment, visit www.dudley.gov.uk and follow links through the traffic section to consultation data.