TRAFFIC experts from three local authorities are to study a new report that suggests ways of solving Ludlow's long standing parking problems.

Among the recommendations in the report by Professor John Snell of Birmingham University are: l cutting the number of parking spaces in Mill Street and Broad Street where there is no time limit; l restricting parking time in Mill Street to two hours; l turning the Castle Square car park to short stay only; l changing the mix of parking at Galdeford; l increasing the number of marked disabled spaces at the top of Broad Street; l reviewing signs on the approaches to and between car parks in the town.

Professor Snell's report was prepared for Ludlow Chamber of Commerce, Shropshire County Council and South Shropshire District Council.

It was based on a survey of the 3,000 vehicles that parked daily in and around the town centre in July and August.

It said the majority of demand was for short-term parking and was particularly high in the four streets with a one-hour limit. Castle Street and the upper level of the Galdeford car park also saw high demand.

The professor said the "significant" numbers of vehicles parked illegally for short periods was "a symptom of the shortage of supply of short term on-street parking."

This would be cut if his suggestions were brought in.

His report now goes before a working group of parking experts from Ludlow Town Council as well as the County and District Councils. It will also be discussed with residents led by David Leeson.

Ludlow mayor Graeme Kidd said: "We can now start looking at some of the problems with some evidence behind us. There is no quick fix but it's good that people are working and talking together about this."