THE threat of fines for drivers 'rat-running' down an access-only street has been welcomed by residents who are tired of living with the problem.

A police operation targetting motorists who use Elms Drive in Marston as a cut through has already had an impact, according to those who live there.

Now councillor for the area Mick Haines wants the force to look at other problem streets in his ward and consider whether something similar could be introduced elsewhere.

All drivers using the road without stopping were given warning letters by the neighbourhood team and told to expect £50 on-the-spot fines if they continue to flout the law.

Mr Haines said he had heard repeated complaints from residents about the impact of the rat-runners.

Which other Oxford streets have a big problem with 'rat-running'? Let us know HERE and we'll investigate

He said: "It makes life quite hard for people, it really does need something done about it.

"We have a lot of kids who live around here and if they were to step out and get hit, they would be in trouble.

"There are two or three roads in Marston that are the same.

"I live on Croft Road and I know we have cars flying around the corner sometimes.

"I'd like to see more measures like this introduced."

The problems in Elms Drive have been made worse by the long-running roadworks on the Headley Way roundabout, with commuters using the street to travel between Marsh Lane and Cherwell Drive without having to go over the congested junction.

Tim Cooper, who has lived on Elms Drive for four years, said there was 'gridlock' when Marsh Lane was closed for resurfacing but also that the issues with rat runners pre-date the works starting.

He said: "I think it is a problem. Drivers who do not live here will run through quite quickly even though there's a 20 mile per hour limit.

"Kids crossing the road aren't always expecting people to come speeding around the corner.

"I have seen the police out at the end of the road over the last few weeks.

"I think it might make a difference, it'll deter people from coming down here."

But neighbour Mary Searle, who lives with her husband, said she had sympathy for drivers, given the amount of congestion in the area recently.

She said: "I think it might be a bit excessive if they are just using it to go from A to B.

"With all the works going on I don't think you can expect much else.

"We've certainly noticed a lot more traffic on the street than normal but it's a short term thing and will be better once it is all back to normal."