COUNCIL chiefs have agreed to review traffic rules down the Worcester city centre street where a woman was killed underneath a refuse lorry.

Worcestershire County Council says it is prepared to examine the "traffic regulation orders" at The Shambles after the 69-year-old, who has yet to be named, was crushed underneath a waste truck on Monday.

The tragedy led to an outpouring of grief during a Worcester City Council meeting last night, with one politician calling for the route's pedestrianisation times to be increased to avoid any repeats.

Councillor Joy Squires said she wants cars, lorries and vans to be stopped from accessing The Shambles between 9am-5.30pm.

At the moment, the current restrictions kick in from 10.30am to 4.30pm.

She said: "I am deeply shocked and saddened by the accident that took place in The Shambles on Monday and send my sincere condolences to the family of the woman who lost her life so tragically.

"Pedestrians should be able to use the pedestrianised streets in the city centre without fear for their lives.

"I have seen a number of near misses over the years and only 24 hours after Monday’s tragic events, there was a collision between a lorry and a car in the same location in The Shambles.

"Luckily no-one was hurt, though the car was damaged.

"I am calling for the restrictions on vehicles accessing the pedestrianised areas to be changed from 10.30am to 9.00am and 4.30pm to 5.30pm.

"I appreciate that businesses will need to adjust their refuse collection and deliveries to accommodate any new restrictions, but in the end, pedestrians are their customers and employees and their safety should be put first."

During the meeting the Mayor of Worcester, Councillor Alan Amos, also passed on his condolences.

The county council now says it will work with West Mercia Police and will look at the current timings.

Councillor John Smith, cabinet member for highways at County Hall, said: "Like Councillor Squires, I'd like to express my condolences and sympathy to the loved ones of the lady who lost her life on Monday.

"As is always the case when tragic accidents of this nature occur, as the highways authority our officers will be working in partnership with the police.

"This will include consideration of the Traffic Regulation Orders in place.

"The findings of the investigation will help identify any future action that may be required."

The pensioner was crushed by a Smith's Waste Management of Gloucester truck, just after 9.15am on Monday.

The driver has been released on bail after he was arrested at the scene on suspicion of death by dangerous driving.