Work starts on flood defences

Work is due to start on Monday to build a flood defence wall for Kidderminster town centre.

This is the second stage of the Environment Agency's flood alleviation scheme for the town centre.

Stage one of the scheme, a flood storage reservoir on the River Stour, is almost complete.

It is hoped the scheme will protect 129 town centre properties from flooding.

Protect people

The town suffered from serious flooding in 1946 and 1955.

Work to build the wall is expected to finish in September.

Environment Agency Project Manager Emma Smiles said the scheme would bring many benefits to Kidderminster, helping to protect people from flooding.

"The agency regrets any temporary inconvenience during the building work, especially to those who will not be able to use the area for recreation," she said.