EMERGENCY Government aid towards the cost of rebuilding the viaduct at Upton-upon-Severn has been requested by Sir Michael Spicer.

The West Worcestershire Conservative MP has written to Transport Secretary Alistair Darling asking for unspent funds from last year's accounts to be paid to Worcestershire County Council.

Sir Michael took the action following a public meeting in Upton last Friday, when concerns were expressed about the source of funding for the major rebuilding project.

"From the point of view of the local council tax payer, it is essential that the Government now make it clear that they stand behind the council with emergency finance for this project," said Sir Michael.

A decision to rebuild the viaduct, at a cost of up to £2.5 m, was taken in May, after an investigation revealed serious structural defects.

Width and weight restrictions have been placed on the affected stretch of the A4104, between Upton Bridge and Upton Marina.

A temporary relief road is being built to the south of the A4104 and this will take diverted traffic while the new viaduct is being constructed.