ABUSIVE drivers have been warned not to target council staff when told they can’t drive down Colchester High Street.

New rules came into force yesterday and ban access to the high street except for taxis, Blue Badge holders, cyclists, buses, motorbikes and goods vehicles.

Mike Lilley, councillor responsible for communities, wellbeing and public safety, said: “Some drivers have been giving a bit of abuse to the operatives so I have had a word with the Chief Inspector to see if the police can make their presence known.

“Traffic was free flowing and there were queues outside many of the big retailers. All in all things looked really good.

“There are some issues with deliveries which need to be ironed out, but I was really impressed for day one of the changes coming into place.”