CHESHIRE West and Chester Council has confirmed that a traffic order will come into effect next month after it received complaints about bikers travelling along a section of The Groves.

The authority says it is illegal to travel on the stretch of road leading to the city's suspension bridge and "unfortunately many drivers have ignored this".

The Standard reported yesterday that a petition had been launched in a bid to overturn the traffic order which it argues will prevent the "tradition" of motorcycle and scooter riders meeting up at The Groves in Chester.

Mark Andrews, who has set up the petition, says bikers have gathering on the stretch between the cafe and the suspension bridge for decades.

So far the online petition has been supported by nearly 750 people.

Councillor Karen Shore, deputy leader and cabinet member for environment, highways and strategic transport, said today: "It is illegal to drive along the section of The Groves towards the Suspension Bridge, unfortunately many drivers have ignored this leading to complaints.

"Following discussions with local Members, Police and Parking services a permanent Traffic Regulation Order has been advertised with no objections.

"It was agreed that waiting restrictions will be added along this length of road and changes will be made to some of the existing limited waiting bays to be for motorcycles only on weekends and bank holidays to make provision for them to park.

"These changes will be put in place next month."

The traffic regulation order decision notice states: "Cheshire West and Chester Borough Council has made the decision that public notice be given of the council's intention to make an order the effect of which will be to: Prohibit waiting at any time on The Groves (both sides).

"From a point 25 metres west of the west side of the suspension bridge for a distance of 112 metres in a south-westerly direction.

"From its junction with Lower Bridge Street for a distance of 123 metres in an easterly direction.

"Limit waiting to 1 hour with no return within 1 hour on The Groves (south-east side) between 8am and 6pm.

"From a point 234 metres north-east of its junction with Lower Bridge Street to a point opposite the west side of Souters Lane.

"From a point 198 metres north-east of its junction with Lower Bridge Street for a distance of 4 metres in a north-easterly direction.

"Limit waiting to 1 hour no return in 1 hour on Monday to Friday (excluding bank holidays) on The Groves (south-east side) from a point 176 metres north-east of its junction with Lower Bridge Street for a distance of 22 metres in a north-easterly direction.

"Restrict parking to motorcycles only for 1 hour no return within 1 hour on Saturdays and Sundays and bank holidays on The Groves (south-east side) from a point 176 metres north-east of its junction with Lower Bridge Street for a distance of 22 metres in a north-easterly direction.

"Reasons for the decision: To address issues being experienced in the area but keep an acceptable balance in the parking facilities in this area."

The petition states: "Motorcycles and scooters have parked at The Groves since the 1950s. It has become a tradition enjoyed by Cestrians and tourists alike.

"Many of these riders are involved in local charities including the North West Air Ambulance, Easter egg runs to the Countess hospital and Teenage Cancer Trust and use the river site to meet, network and organise events.

"Over the years they have raised thousands of pounds and delivered vast amounts of Easter eggs and toys to sick children locally. Without this meeting place not only will The Groves lose a part of its heritage but there will be nowhere in the immediate area for bikes to park in any numbers making it very difficult to plan future events.

"These riders have supported local charities for years and now ask for your support to continue."

To view the petition click here.