UPDATED 5PM

UNDER-FIRE council chiefs today coned off part of Worcester's Ketch island - saying the move was prompted by "safety concerns" from the public.

After three days of heavy criticism, highways workers have placed cones to section-off the merger lane where drivers exit it for the Carrington Bridge - a tactic prompted by a Facebook video viewed 75,000 times.

The emergency tactic, which took place around 3pm this afternoon, came a day after Worcestershire County Council agreed to bring forward a safety probe due to heavy public pressure.

Your Worcester News can reveal how an official safety audit is now expected to start on Monday, following the Facebook video and petition by Councillor Tom Wells which has hit 1,000 signatures.

The video shows drivers braking harshly and shaking their heads as two lanes quickly merge into one just as they go around the bend to exit the Ketch island onto Carrington Bridge.

This afternoon Councillor Wells said: "I would like to thank all those residents, this goes to show that thousands of motorists cannot be wrong.

"One week ago the council was in a completely entrenched position, claiming there was no problem and it told me there was nothing to be concerned about, despite my concerns.

"A few days later, after 75,000 people have seen the video and 1,000 people have signed a petition, they've caved in and accepted the weight of public opinion.

"I am delighted they've done this but disappointed I've had to go about it in these terms - it shouldn't need me to try and get action this way.

"It was evident to all of us that there's a serious issue here."

St John's based campaigner Lisa Ventura said: "I am really pleased, fair play to Councillor Tom Wells.

"I am surprised this was done so quickly, it does suggest the council realises there is a massive issue with that layout."

Cones were also placed to section-off the right hand lane approach from the Norton roundabout to the Ketch roundabout.

The changes will remain in place until the safety audit is complete, including this weekend.

The island is still fully accessible to and from all directions.

A council spokesman said: "In response to feedback received regarding the Ketch roundabout and to reduce safety concerns, temporary traffic management arrangements have been put in place.

"These arrangements will remain in place until we have completed the safety audit."