A BATTLE to get the main road bridge into Upton raised is being taken to the heart of Government.

West Worcestershire MP Sir Michael Spicer has requested a meeting with the Secretary of State for transport, Alistair Darling, to secure funding for the project. During flooding the A4104 bridge becomes unusable and campaigners want to see the roadway lifted.

A feasibility study by Worcestershire County Council has concluded that raising the approach to the bridge would be a positive step forward for the town.

Sir Michael said: "The county council has now carried out its initial studies and the time has come for the Government to provide the necessary funds to take the project forward.

"This is not just the case of helping the residents of Upton in severe floods; it is also a question of keeping open one of the few crossings of the River Severn.

"Last year I organised two meetings with ministers. I very much hope that the meeting which ought to take place in September will be decisive."

Funding will be sought for detailed designs to be drawn up for the plans in conjunction with the Environment Agency. Following consultation with Upton residents once designs are drafted, financial help would again be required from the Government next July for the work to then begin.