FLOOD campaigners are "over the moon" at the decision to install a European-style flood defence system in Worcester that will protect homes and businesses from devastating floodwaters.

At a meeting last night, Worcester city councillors gave their full support to the scheme, which will be tested along the Severn in Hylton Road, Worcester.

Mary Dhonau, chairman of Worcester Action Against Flooding, who has campaigned for the past three years for flood defences for Worcester, said the road's residents and businesses were delighted.

"They were very apprehensive about the outcome of the meeting but last night they were over the moon and very relieved," she said.

"I'm thrilled the council has seen sense and agreed this is the only option for Worcester."

The city council has teamed up with Worcestershire County Council and the Environment Agency (EA) to provide funding for the year-long trial project.

It will be one of the first places in the country to try the ambitious Swedish-invented pallet barrier system, which uses a "wall" of wooden pallets covered in plastic sheeting to keep out water.

The barriers, which can be put up faster than the water rises, have already been bought by the EA with a £600,000 grant from the Department of the Environment Food and Rural Affairs.

The assembly for the Hylton Road plan will cost £2,400, plus £1,000 to maintain for each day of the flood.

But speaking at the council's cabinet meeting, Councillor Liz Smith said it was vital residents knew it was a trial scheme and not a permanent solution.

"It might prove that this is not a solution for Worcester and I do think it's necessary that we get that message across," she said.

"Given how low down on Worcester is on the list of flooding priorities nationally, I think we'd have been mad not to grasp at this opportunity, though."

Coun Smith also suggested that if the scheme was a success, it could be moved to other affected areas of the city, such as Barbourne Brook.

Councillor Mike Layland said the council could look at seeking funding for the project from the private sector.

"I appreciate the financial restraint this council is under, but this project is too good an opportunity to miss," he said.

Councillors agreed that while a temporary scheme was welcome, the city council needed to liaise with the EA about the possibility of a permanent solution.

"In a nutshell, the proof of the pudding will be in the eating," said leader of the council Councillor Stephen Inman.

What do you think about the flood barrier? Let us know your views by writing to: Voice of Worcester, Evening News, Hylton Road, Worcester, WR2 5JX. Alternatively, e-mail: letters@thisisworcester.co.uk