Flood defences are necessary despite the public's concerns

9:14am Thursday 21st August 2008

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SIR – I note with interest the letters by Gary Clarke and John Whitehead (August 13) who comment upon the decision concerning the flood defences to protect Hylton Road.

These proposals from the Environment Agency were considered by the cross party planning committee of the city council. We visited the site for the bank and were satisfied that this was the optimum solution to a difficult problem. It was inevitable, sadly, that a number of trees would have to be removed but they will be replaced and the landscaping enhanced. There will also be a special view point constructed to maintain the downstream vista of the river bridge.

Dredging of the river might have a beneficial effect but it is controversial and unlikely to provide a permanent answer given the volumes of water that the river has poured through Worcester in recent times.

Whenever water is diverted it has to go somewhere else and in this case further downstream but over a wider area. I am sure that those who live on Hylton Road are relieved that at last measures are being taken to protect their properties.

The riverside is important for Worcester and Mr Clarke is right that we must make the most of it. The result of work on both sides of the southern loop from the bridge to Diglis and the bridge across the Diglis island I have no doubt will be a great asset for all.

COUNCILLOR DAVID TIBBUTT,

Cabinet Member for Urban Renaissance,

Worcester City Council.